Why Utah football should benefit from a Colorado judge's ruling
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Morgan Scalley is focused on finding ways to help the Utah Utes win ahead of the 2026 season. But he might've caught an unexpected break from a Colorado judge.
The NCAA's eligibility requirements recently changed, giving some players an extra year under the "five-for-five" structure. What this means is any player in the 2022 recruiting class who played four seasons can return for a fifth.
The NCAA has asked for guidance on the ruling. The college governing body is also appealing.
Why would Scalley bring back a player? The first-year Utes coach made it clear to reporters that the team is "more polished" during the start of fall camp. This is the time when Scalley can implement his philosophy and ground his roots as a head coach.
One key decision will be what happens with NaQuari Rogers. The Utes' leader in rushing touchdowns last season is mulling over whether to return. His 11 rushing scores were tied for third most in the Big 12. He scored at least one touchdown in eight games, including in four of the last six outings.
Under a pre-existing condition, the five-for-five rule was expected to be on the books next fall. However, a federal judge expedited that timeline. U.S. District Judge Charlotte Sweeney of Colorado issued a preliminary injunction, granting an additional year of eligibility for players like Rogers.
A huge shift coming right before the season with rosters nearly full at 105 players. What's important to note is this doesn't reopen the transfer portal for a mad scramble to ensue. If a player was already in the portal, they'll be allowed to exit and find a new team. But any player seeking a fifth year will have to return to their prior school.
No doubt bringing Rogers back would boost Utah’s offensive attack immediately. The downside is splitting carries with Wayshawn Parker and Devon Dampier. This is where Scalley and offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven will make their money by figuring out how to make it work.
Curt Cignetti and the Indiana Hoosiers have already pulled the trigger and added defensive lineman Stephen Daley back to the roster for a fifth season. The defending national champions wasted no time, which should be encouraging all coaches, including Scalley, to make a similar move.
Adding Rogers' production back into the equation pushes Utah into the conversation of boasting one of the Big 12's best offenses. He also brings senior leadership to a team on the fringe of competing for a conference title.
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