Vanderbilt Players, Athletes File Class-Action Suit Challenging NCAA Eligibility Limits

Vanderbilt linebacker Langston Patterson and defensive lineman Issa Ouattara are leading a class-action lawsuit against the NCAA challenging the 'redshirt rule,' which allows athletes to compete in only four seasons over a five-year eligibility window. The lawsuit argues that the current rule violates antitrust laws by limiting athletes' ability to earn name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation and restricts their earning potential. The plaintiffs seek to extend competitive eligibility to five full seasons, allowing athletes to participate in games throughout their entire five-year eligibility period while still practicing and attending school. Attorney Ryan Downton, who previously represented Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia in a successful eligibility challenge, is co-lead counsel in this case. The NCAA maintains that its eligibility rules are intended to balance academic and athletic opportunities and suggests any changes require Congressional involvement. This lawsuit follows a trend of multiple legal challenges to NCAA eligibility rules, reflecting ongoing debates over athlete rights and compensation.