Story perspectives

Judge Denies Players' Bid to Challenge NCAA Redshirt Rule

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge William L. Campbell in Nashville denied five players' preliminary injunction to play a fifth season, saying they did not demonstrate a strong case against the NCAA's redshirt rule.
The players, who have completed four seasons without redshirting, expressed disappointment.
Their attorney, Ryan Downton, remains confident in the class-action lawsuit against the NCAA.
Football Bowl Subdivision coaches voted to request raising redshirt game limit from four to nine.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge William L. Campbell in Nashville denied five players' preliminary injunction to play a fifth season, saying they did not demonstrate a strong case against the NCAA's redshirt rule.
The players, who have completed four seasons without redshirting, expressed disappointment.
Their attorney, Ryan Downton, remains confident in the class-action lawsuit against the NCAA.
Football Bowl Subdivision coaches voted to request raising redshirt game limit from four to nine.