Two New Mexico football players demand jury trial in consolidated NCAA eligibility cases
University of New Mexico defensive end Brett Karhu and cornerback Azariah Levells have formally requested a 12-person jury trial in their consolidated lawsuit against the NCAA, according to court documents filed Monday in New Mexico's 2nd Judicial District Court. Both fifth-year seniors are currently competing under temporary restraining orders while seeking preliminary injunctions that would allow them to finish the season. The dispute centers on the NCAA's updated eligibility framework, known as the "five-for-five" rule, which the players argue was applied in a way that unfairly stripped them of a final year of eligibility — though neither player objects to the policy itself. Judge Joshua A. Allison heard arguments on the preliminary injunction requests but did not issue a ruling from the bench, indicating a decision would come no sooner than Tuesday.
Neither objected to the policy itself, only its application.
Why it matters
For service providers: The outcome could influence how NIL and eligibility service providers advise athletes navigating the new NCAA eligibility model.
For coaches: Coaching staffs planning rosters around fifth-year seniors face continued uncertainty about which players will be cleared to compete.
For athletes: College athletes in similar eligibility disputes are watching this case for guidance on whether state courts can provide relief when federal injunctions are stayed.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports
Sources
- Yahoo Sports: Karhu, Levells request jury trial in consolidated cases against NCAA