Chase Daniel Sees NFL Draft Opportunity for Trinidad Chambliss After NCAA Waiver Denial

Former NFL QB believes Chambliss could rise to QB2 in 2026 NFL Draft class after setback of NCAA waiver denial.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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When Trinidad Chambliss' NCAA waiver was denied, it was seen as a major setback. However, former NFL quarterback and current analyst Chase Daniel believes the denial may end up being a blessing in disguise for Chambliss. Daniel suggests Chambliss could now position himself as the QB2 in the 2026 NFL Draft class, behind only Fernando Mendoza. Chambliss had a breakout 2025 season, leading Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff semifinals, and his combination of passing ability and athleticism makes him an attractive prospect.

Why it matters

The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class is viewed as thinner at the top than recent years, with Mendoza and Ty Simpson considered the top two prospects. Chambliss' strong 2025 season and his dual-threat ability give him a chance to surpass Simpson and claim the QB2 spot, which would significantly boost his draft stock.

The details

Chambliss posted a PFSN CFB quarterback impact grade of 90.3 in 2025, the fifth-best mark in the country, while Simpson finished with an 85.4 grade, ranking 25th nationally. Chambliss also added 470 rushing yards and 6 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his athleticism. With defenses having more tape on Simpson, who started the season strong but leveled off, Chambliss has an opportunity to make a push for the QB2 spot in the draft.

  • Chambliss' NCAA waiver was denied in early February 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April/May 2026.

The players

Chase Daniel

A former NFL quarterback and current NFL analyst who believes Chambliss could rise to QB2 in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Trinidad Chambliss

A quarterback who had a breakout 2025 season at Ole Miss, leading the team to the College Football Playoff semifinals, and is now poised to elevate his draft stock after his NCAA waiver was denied.

Fernando Mendoza

Considered the top quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class.

Ty Simpson

Currently viewed as the QB2 prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class, but Chambliss has a chance to surpass him.

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What they’re saying

“Could be QB2 in the NFL Draft...”

— Chase Daniel, Former NFL Quarterback and Current NFL Analyst (Twitter)

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft order and quarterback rankings will continue to evolve in the coming months, and Chambliss will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and cement his status as a top prospect.

The takeaway

The NCAA's denial of Chambliss' waiver may have been a setback, but it has also opened the door for him to potentially surpass Ty Simpson and claim the QB2 spot in the 2026 NFL Draft, which would significantly boost his draft stock and professional prospects.