Court Ruling Opens Door For 2 Indiana Linemen To Play vs. Northwestern

An Indiana state court has opened the door for Indiana Hoosiers defensive linemen Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt to return to the playing field for Friday night's Big Ten Conference opener against the Northwestern Wildcats.

Monroe Circuit Court Judge Kara Krothe issued a preliminary injunction on Wednesday that grants Daley, Wyatt and more than 90 other athletes a fifth year of eligibility.

The NCAA is expected to appeal.

For now, though, the ruling clears the way for Daley, Wyatt and dozens of others to return to action.

"The 2026-27 Division football, soccer, cross country, and field hockey seasons are underway," Krothe wrote in a 37-page opinion.

"Swimming and basketball seasons are fast approaching, with official practices for basketball beginning on September 21.

2026.

Spring sports are around the comer.

She added: "Plaintiffs have secured roster spots, but will not receive scholarship aid or NIL payments until their eligibility is continued by court order.

If relief is denied, they will lose their roster spots.

College sports seasons are time-limited opportunities.

Once lost, they cannot be restored, even if plaintiffs later prevail on the merits." Daley and Wyatt did not play in Indiana’s 38-0 victory over Western Kentucky last weekend because a temporary restraining order allowing them to compete had expired.

Both testified in court last week, but when the decision did not come down before the game, they were held out.

Krothe's ruling was expected this week.