Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is navigating one of the most difficult eligibility cases in college football as he seeks approval for a sixth season. It's a decision that could potentially lead to a reunion with Lane Kiffin at LSU.
Chambliss’ rise has been one of the defining stories of the 2025 season. A transfer from Division II Ferris State, he led Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals in his fifth season and finished eighth in Heisman Trophy voting. Now, with his eligibility is exhausted under normal circumstances, but he's fighting to secure an additional year.
Chambliss seeks a waiver for a sixth season based on a medical redshirt for the 2022 campaign, when Chambliss did not play while dealing with persistent respiratory issues that later required surgery. The case is being reviewed by the NCAA Committee on Student-Athlete Reinstatement, though there is no timeline for a ruling.
With the transfer portal opening Jan. 2, Chambliss hired prominent attorney Tom Mars on Dec. 17 to assist with the process. Mars submitted a detailed, seven-page letter to the NCAA on Dec. 22, arguing Chambliss would suffer “irreparable harm” if the waiver is denied, given his projected market value as one of college football’s top returning quarterbacks in 2026.
NCAA delays ruling on Ole Miss waiver for Trinidad Chambliss by disregarding the plain language of its own Bylaw, which just requires “objective evidence” and nothing more. Https://t.co/ggzRVaBtOA
— Tom Mars (@TomMarsLaw) December 24, 2025
Chambliss has completed 66.6% of his passes this season, throwing for 19 touchdowns and three interceptions while adding 506 rushing yards and eight scores. He starred in Ole Miss’ playoff win over Tulane, completing 23 of 29 passes for 282 yards.
If granted the waiver, Ole Miss would push hard to retain him. But LSU provides a compelling alternative, with Kiffin and offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. Soon to be in Baton Rouge.
Ole Miss plays Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, though clarity on Chambliss’ future may not come until well after a new champion is crowned.
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