Report: Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia aiming to end NCAA’s JUCO eligibility rule with class action lawsuit

Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, who previously won a legal injunction allowing him a sixth season, is expanding his legal battle against the NCAA. He and his legal team are preparing to file an amended complaint, transforming it into a class-action lawsuit, to challenge the NCAA’s rule of counting junior college (JUCO) seasons against a player’s collegiate eligibility. Several other players, including Tre Richardson (Vanderbilt), Andrew Burnette (Louisiana Tech), Iman Oates (Oklahoma State), and James Djonkam (Virginia Tech), have joined as plaintiffs.

Pavia initially received an additional year of eligibility after a U.S. District Court judge ruled the NCAA’s redshirt rule violated antitrust law. The NCAA responded with a temporary waiver for the 2025-26 season, granting an extra year to athletes affected by the rule. However, Pavia’s amended complaint seeks a more permanent solution, potentially setting a nationwide precedent regarding JUCO seasons and eligibility.

Despite planning to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, Pavia intends to remain involved in the lawsuit to ensure future athletes benefit from the same opportunities he has received. His attorney, Ryan Downton, emphasized Pavia’s commitment to guaranteeing future athletes have equal access to eligibility.

(Source：On3)