Declan Williams misses game while pursuing NCAA eligibility in court

University of the Incarnate Word linebacker Declan Williams remained in Texas rather than traveling with the team for Saturday's game against Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Williams, a first-team All-Southland selection, is currently pursuing legal action to secure a fifth year of eligibility under the NCAA's five-for-five system. After a federal court stay stripped his eligibility in August, Williams shifted his legal challenge from Bexar County to a broader lawsuit in Dallas County involving multiple plaintiffs. While the NCAA maintains that athletes who began their careers in 2022 remain ineligible, Williams continues to work with his attorney to challenge the organization's age-based rules. The linebacker returned to the program earlier this summer after completing unsuccessful NFL minicamp trials. His availability for future games remains uncertain as the litigation proceeds.

• 10:24 PMYahoo Sports — Declan Williams continues NCAA eligibility fight as UIW heads to Northern Arizona