NCAA Battles Over Eligibility Rules in Diego Pavia Case as Legal Challenges Mount

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The NCAA returned to court on Tuesday to continue its battle over eligibility rules, with a focus on Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia. This case is particularly significant as Pavia is in his fourth season of Division I football, and he is currently playing under a preliminary injunction.

During the hearing, attorney Rakesh Kilaru represented the NCAA before a three-judge panel at the 6th U.S. District Court of Appeals. Kilaru argued that the NCAA’s eligibility rules do not conflict with the Sherman Act or other antitrust laws. He stated that the organization is committed to enforcing its eligibility rules, suggesting that this matter might return to court soon.

The appeals court’s decision will not impact Pavia’s eligibility this season, as the NCAA granted a waiver that allows junior college players to play through the current academic year. Pavia’s journey began at New Mexico Military Institute in 2020, where his season wasn’t counted due to the pandemic. He later led his junior college team to a national championship in 2021 before transferring to New Mexico State in 2022 and 2023. Pavia then joined Vanderbilt for the 2024 season, making this his fourth year at the Division I level.

Another attorney, Ryan Downton, represented Pavia during the hearing. He argued that the NCAA’s rules unfairly restrict players, particularly how they count seasons played at junior colleges. Downton expressed hope for a decision on the merits of Pavia’s case even though Pavia has set his sights on the NFL after this season.

“His plan is to play in the NFL and doesn’t want there to be any doubt or misunderstanding,” Downton said. He noted that Pavia is not interested in extending his college career but wants to pave the way for future athletes facing similar issues.

This situation exemplifies a larger issue as the NCAA faces around 21 lawsuits related to eligibility rules. The legal landscape is complex, with different cases challenging various restrictions, including the Five-Year Rule that limits athletes to four seasons of competition.

As the legal team seeks a ruling, the future remains uncertain, particularly for other athletes questioning their eligibility for next season. They are navigating a complicated set of regulations, and Downton suggested there may still be more legal challenges ahead.