Judge Denies Injunctions for USC, UCLA Players Over NCAA Eligibility Rule

USC offensive lineman DJ Wingfield and UCLA wide receiver Kaedin Robinson were denied preliminary injunctions by a U.S. District Court judge that would have allowed them to play in the 2025 college football season. Both players challenged the NCAA's Five-Year Rule, which limits athletes to four seasons of competition within five years, arguing it violates antitrust laws and restricts their eligibility and NIL earning potential. The judge ruled the NCAA's rule as a true eligibility standard rather than a commercial issue, thus not subject to antitrust scrutiny. This ruling is part of a broader pattern of inconsistent court decisions on NCAA eligibility rules, with some players winning extra eligibility while others, like Wingfield and Robinson, are denied. Wingfield was expected to be a key player for USC's offensive line, and Robinson a top wideout for UCLA, both having secured significant NIL contracts contingent on playing. Experts note that while appeals could be filed, it is unlikely either player will participate in the 2025 season due to the timing of legal processes.