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Cal Defensive Tackle Seeking Extra Year of Eligibility
Aidan Keanaaina files lawsuit against NCAA to play in 2026 season
Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:38pm
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A cubist interpretation of a defensive tackle's explosive movements on the college football field, reflecting the complex legal battle over his eligibility.Notre Dame TodayCal defensive tackle Aidan Keanaaina, an honorable mention all-ACC selection last season, has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA claiming he should receive an additional year of college football eligibility. Keanaaina argues his 2022 season at Notre Dame should be considered a medical redshirt and not count against his eligibility. If he wins the case, he could potentially play for Cal in 2026.
Why it matters
Keanaaina has been a key contributor on Cal's defensive line the past two seasons, starting 26 games. His return for another year would be a major boost for the Bears' defense. The case also highlights the complex eligibility rules in college sports and the challenges players face in navigating the system.
The details
Keanaaina played three seasons at Notre Dame from 2020-2022 before transferring to Cal, where he has started the past two years. He claims his 2022 season at Notre Dame, in which he played in only one game after recovering from a torn ACL, should be considered a medical redshirt and not count against his eligibility. If granted, this would give him an additional year to play for Cal in 2026.
- Keanaaina filed the lawsuit, Keanaaina v. NCAA, requesting a temporary restraining order in March 2026.
- A planning conference for the case is scheduled for June 29, 2026.
- Cal's spring practice resumed on April 1, 2026, but Keanaaina is not participating while awaiting the ruling.
The players
Aidan Keanaaina
A defensive tackle at the University of California, Berkeley who is seeking an additional year of college football eligibility through a lawsuit against the NCAA.
NCAA
The National Collegiate Athletic Association, the governing body for college sports that sets the rules for player eligibility.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on June 29 whether to grant Keanaaina's request for a temporary restraining order that would allow him to play in 2026.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complex eligibility rules in college sports and the challenges players face in navigating the system. Keanaaina's lawsuit could set an important precedent for how medical redshirts are applied, with potential implications for other student-athletes seeking additional years of eligibility.
