Court denies NCAA motion, rules Missouri DT Sterling Webb eligible

Field Level Media|published: Wed 2nd September, 14:22 2026

Missouri Tigers defensive tackle Sterling Webb (10) was ruled eligible by virtue of a court decision on Wednesday, clearing him to play a fifth year of college football. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Defensive tackle Sterling Webb is eligible to play for Missouri after a judge denied the NCAA's motion to dismiss a temporary restraining order on Wednesday.

Webb started eight games for Missouri last season and three in 2024 after playing two seasons at New Mexico State.

Webb was granted an additional year of college eligibility last week after suing the NCAA over a new rule in place granting college athletes five years of eligibility in five years. A 2022 high school graduate, Webb was excluded from the transition group.

Head coach Eli Drinkwitz welcomed Webb back to practice in July while the courtroom drama played out, saying he accepted Webb was "doing what he thinks is best for him."

No. 25 Missouri begins the season on Thursday against visiting Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Drinkwitz didn't commit to playing Webb after easing him into practices.

Drinkwitz learned of the decision made by a judge in St. Louis County, Missouri, during the SEC coaches teleconference on Wednesday.

"I'm just trying to figure out who's eligible for our games -- tomorrow," Drinkwitz said.

--Field Level Media