A college football season can change quickly, and if you add controversial eligibility decisions into the mix, not only does it create coaching headaches but also volatility on the roster. For Texas Tech, Thomas Castellanos’ uncertain eligibility court case is one such issue. After an earlier decision from the Kentucky Court of Appeals on Oct. 2 threatened to keep him out, a new order has opened the door for his return.
The ruling concerns a group of 38 college athletes seeking a fifth season of eligibility under an ongoing lawsuit against the NCAA. On Friday, Oct. 16, Judge Brian C. Edwards of the Jefferson Circuit Court granted a temporary injunction that allows the athletes to compete during the 2026–27 season while the legal case continues. Thomas Castellanos, Texas Tech’s backup quarterback, is among those cleared to play under the order…