Oklahoma's Heinecke Sues NCAA for Extra Year of Eligibility

Oklahoma linebacker Owen Heinecke has initiated a lawsuit against the NCAA, seeking a preliminary injunction that would allow him an extra year of eligibility, according to court filings.

Heinecke has been preparing for the NFL draft following the denial of his waiver request and appeal by the NCAA earlier this year. His aim for the injunction is to secure eligibility before the draft commences on April 23.

An emergency hearing regarding Heinecke's lawsuit is scheduled for April 16 in Cleveland County Court, Oklahoma.

Oklahoma athletic director Roger Denny expressed support for Heinecke, stating, "OU fully supports Owen and his pursuit of a fair opportunity to continue playing the game he loves. We'll stand firmly beside him as he works to do just that."

The NCAA ruled that Heinecke was no longer eligible due to his participation in three games with Ohio State's lacrosse team in 2021 before he joined Oklahoma's football program as a walk-on in 2022. Heinecke completed three seasons during his four years with the Sooners.

In 2025, Heinecke had a standout season, recording 74 tackles and 12 tackles for loss, earning a spot on the AP All-SEC second team. He has participated in the Senior Bowl, the NFL scouting combine, and Oklahoma's pro day, and is projected to be a late-round pick if he enters the NFL draft.

Oklahoma general manager Jim Nagy remarked earlier in the month, "We're not giving up. Owen is just a guy you want to fight for."

Heinecke's case follows a trend of college football players suing the NCAA for additional eligibility. Notably, Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss was granted a preliminary injunction in February for a sixth year of eligibility, while the NCAA is appealing that decision. Meanwhile, Tennessee's Joey Aguilar had his request for an injunction denied last month, and Virginia's Chandler Morris is also suing the NCAA for a seventh year of eligibility.