USC OL DJ Wingfield forced to turn to legal action for extra year of eligibility

It is a complete joke that USC transfer DJ Wingfield has not yet been granted an additional year of eligibility. This is particularly true when multiple student-athletes continue to see the process almost expedited for them, almost assumed. The rules of what is and is not allowed have changed drastically over the years, particularly after COVID-19.

Wingfield joined the program, looking to have his sixth year, finishing out his career with the Trojans.

The rule in question allows for those whose college careers were affected during COVID-19. So long as one of their years was at an NCAA-sanctioned school, then they are allowed to play for one more year.

Considering that Wingfield played at El Camino Junior College, which is part of the California Community College Athletic Association, this really should not be at all a question.

Yet, the NCAA continues to drag its feet, so far not granting the eligibility that Wingfield is just as entitled to as everyone else in a similar situation.

With the season right around the corner, the offensive lineman is going to be forced to continue to go through the legal route unless the NCAA finally decides to change course and do the right thing. As reported by On3's Pete Nakos, Wingfield filed suit against the NCAA on Monday.

Justice needed for USC lineman

It is sad that this is what things have led to with Wingfield, but the lineman realistically did not have any other choice. He needed to force the hand of the NCAA.

Most likely, this will make it so that he is going to be able to suit up in the Cardinal and Gold, only for the NCAA to release a statement later, insisting that some newfound information made its way to their desk, suddenly making it so that he is eligible. For USC and coach Lincoln Riley, they just want to see Wingfield be able to take the field.