West Virginia football players seek return via eligibility ruling

West Virginia University football announced that tight end Jacob Barrick and defensive back Jason Chambers are participating in team activities as they seek to return to the program. The players are seeking a fifth year of eligibility following a preliminary injunction issued by Colorado District Judge Charlotte Sweeney.

The ruling affects members of the Class of 2022, potentially allowing them to utilize a new ‘5 for 5’ rule. While the NCAA has appealed the decision, the matter is expected to move to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Jason Chambers appeared in all 12 games last season, contributing 34 tackles and an interception. Jacob Barrick primarily served as a blocker during his time with the Mountaineers. Head coach Rich Rodriguez indicated that the program is monitoring the legal developments and noted that no current players would be cut to accommodate returning fifth-year athletes.