A Florida court’s ruling in a challenge to NCAA eligibility rules could have broader implications for student-athletes seeking additional years of competition.
The case stems from UCF linebacker Cole Kozlowski, who challenged the NCAA’s decision not to grant him a fifth season of eligibility under its transition to the new “five-for-five” model. Kozlowski sought immediate relief so he could participate in the remainder of the 2026 football season while the dispute is litigated.
McCarter & English partner Ira Gonzalez spoke with Naples Daily News after securing a temporary injunction on behalf of Kozlowski, allowing him to immediately practice and compete while his lawsuit against the NCAA proceeds. In granting the injunction, the court found that the loss of a final season of collegiate athletics constituted irreparable harm because the opportunity could not be replaced or adequately compensated through monetary damages.
Ira said that the parties’ next step is pursuing an expedited hearing on a permanent injunction, emphasizing the importance of resolving the eligibility issue while the season is still underway. The ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing legal challenges to NCAA eligibility policies and their application to student-athletes affected by the transition to the new framework.