Ohio QB Parker Navarro Denied 7th Season of Eligibility

The NCAA has rejected Navarro's waiver request for an additional year of play.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 7:15pm

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The NCAA has denied Ohio redshirt senior quarterback Parker Navarro's request for a seventh season of eligibility, despite his strong performance over the past two years. Navarro, who spent four seasons at Ohio and two at UCF, had hoped to extend his college career, but the NCAA upheld its initial decision to deny his waiver. Navarro will now prepare for a potential professional career after leading the Bobcats to a conference championship and two bowl victories.

Why it matters

The NCAA has been strict with waiver requests this offseason, denying eligibility extensions for several high-profile players. Navarro's case highlights the challenges student-athletes face in navigating the complex rules around college eligibility, even for those with impressive on-field accomplishments.

The details

Navarro spent the last two seasons as Ohio's starting quarterback, leading the Bobcats to a 20-6 record. He was named second-team all-conference in 2024 after leading the MAC with 18 rushing touchdowns. Over his six-year college career, Navarro completed 407/638 passes for 5,030 yards with 30 touchdowns and added 361 carries for 2,160 yards and 30 rushing scores. Despite his efforts, the NCAA denied Navarro's request for a seventh season of eligibility.

  • Navarro spent four seasons at Ohio and two at UCF.
  • In 2024 and 2025, Navarro was the starting quarterback for Ohio.
  • Navarro officially entered the transfer portal a few weeks ago.
  • The NCAA rejected Navarro's waiver request in early February 2026.

The players

Parker Navarro

A redshirt senior quarterback who spent four seasons at Ohio and two at UCF, leading the Bobcats to a conference championship and two bowl victories over the past two years.

Ohio Bobcats

The college football program that Navarro played for over the last four seasons, where he established himself as a standout dual-threat quarterback.

NCAA

The governing body of college sports that denied Navarro's request for a seventh season of eligibility, despite his strong on-field performance.

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The takeaway

Navarro's case highlights the challenges student-athletes face in navigating the complex NCAA eligibility rules, even for those with impressive on-field accomplishments. The NCAA's strict approach to waiver requests this offseason has left several high-profile players, including Navarro, without the opportunity to extend their college careers.