Court Grants Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia Extra Year, Challenging NCAA Eligibility Rules

The federal injunction allows Diego Pavia to play in 2025, potentially reshaping NCAA policies on junior college transfers and athlete eligibility.

A federal judge ruled in favor of Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, granting him an additional year of eligibility through a temporary injunction against NCAA rules.
The court found NCAA regulations counting junior college seasons toward eligibility limits to be overly restrictive and potentially in violation of federal antitrust laws.
Pavia's return bolsters Vanderbilt's football program and is expected to enhance recruiting efforts, particularly for offensive positions like wide receiver and offensive line.
The ruling could have broader implications for NCAA policies, opening the door for other athletes to challenge eligibility restrictions tied to junior college play.
While the decision is preliminary and subject to appeal, it prevents the NCAA from penalizing Vanderbilt or Pavia if the ruling is later overturned.