Oklahoma linebacker Owen Heinecke filed a lawsuit against the NCAA on Monday seeking an additional year of eligibility for the 2026 season. The lawsuit comes after the NCAA denied his waiver request and appeal, citing his participation in three Ohio State lacrosse games in 2021. Heinecke has been preparing for the NFL draft, which begins April 23.

An emergency hearing has been scheduled for April 16 in Cleveland County Court. Oklahoma athletic director Roger Denny expressed full support for Heinecke, stating the university will stand firmly beside him. The linebacker enjoyed a breakout 2025 season with 74 tackles and 12 tackles for loss, earning AP All-SEC second-team recognition.

Heinecke's case follows similar lawsuits by other college football players seeking additional eligibility. Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss recently won a preliminary injunction for a sixth year, though the NCAA is appealing that decision. Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar's request was denied, while Virginia quarterback Chandler Morris is also suing the NCAA. Oklahoma general manager Jim Nagy told reporters earlier this month, 'We're not giving up. Owen is just a guy you want to fight for.'