NCAA Memo Addresses Tampering Rules After Ole Miss Allegations

New policies could have major implications for schools that violate recruitment rules.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 12:48am

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The NCAA has sent a memo to its member schools addressing tampering rules, following recent allegations of improper recruiting practices at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). The memo, sent by NCAA Vice President of Enforcement Jon Duncan, suggests potential policy and rules changes to better serve the evolving landscape of Division I athletics while balancing fairness and efficiency.

Why it matters

The memo comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged tampering violations at Ole Miss, which could have significant consequences for the school and its athletic programs. The NCAA's response signals its intent to crack down on improper recruiting tactics that provide unfair advantages to certain programs.

The details

The memo outlines the NCAA's plans to potentially update its policies and rules governing the recruitment of student-athletes. This move is likely in response to the growing concerns around tampering, which occurs when schools or individuals improperly contact or influence prospective student-athletes who are already committed to other institutions.

  • The NCAA memo was sent to member schools on February 23, 2026.

The players

Jon Duncan

NCAA Vice President of Enforcement, who sent the memo addressing tampering rules.

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

The school at the center of the recent allegations of improper recruiting practices that prompted the NCAA's response.

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What’s next

The NCAA's proposed policy and rule changes will likely be discussed and potentially implemented in the coming months, as the organization seeks to address the growing concerns around tampering in college sports.

The takeaway

The NCAA's memo signals its intent to crack down on improper recruiting tactics, which could have significant implications for schools found to be in violation of tampering rules. This move underscores the NCAA's efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in the evolving landscape of college athletics.