CLEVELAND COUNTY -A Cleveland County judge ruled in favor of University of Oklahoma linebacker Owen Heinecke in an NCAA eligibility hearing.

Now, the Oklahoma linebacker is eligible to play for the Sooners in 2026.

Key Takeaways

The judge ruled Heinecke had one more year of eligibility.

The NCAA argued his prior lacrosse appearances at Ohio State count against its five-year eligibility clock.

Heinecke’s attorneys said COVID-19 disruptions and injury limited his early opportunities to play football.

OU head coach Brent Venables and team officials are expected to testify during the hearing.

Heinecke reacts after court ruling

After the ruling, Owen Heinecke said the moment was emotional and surreal as he processed the decision that gives him another year at Oklahoma.

“I’m appreciative of Judge Balkman and his discernment, but I’m excited. Sooner for one more year, so can’t wait.”

Heinecke said the wait for the ruling was one of the most intense moments of the process.

“My heart was racing probably harder than it is before a game when I was up on the witness stand… pretty crazy day, pretty surreal to have the case taken this far.”

‘Overwhelming support’ during legal battle

Heinecke pointed to strong support from teammates, coaches and fans throughout the process, even after multiple denials from the NCAA.

“The overwhelming support… it’s been crazy to see everybody pour into me in a loving way… Never once was Sooner Nation… they were always behind me.”

Ready to return and lead

Heinecke said he stayed engaged with the team during spring practices, even while his future was uncertain.

“I felt like I kind of had a coaching hat on a little bit… trying to pour into some of the younger guys, help out as best I can.”

Now, he’s focused on stepping into a leadership role.

“I’m excited to kind of take on a new role, be a leader and a mentor as best I can… I’m here for the whole team.”

Focus shifts back to football With the legal process behind him, Heinecke said his attention quickly turns back to the field and what he hopes to accomplish in his final season.

“I hope my legacy is just exactly what I’ve been trying to build… someone who came in, defied the odds, outworked everybody, and hopefully I can bring a national championship to OU.”

Heinecke added he’s eager to return to the locker room and rejoin his teammates.

“I’m excited to have my name back up in there, because there’s nothing like being a Sooner.”

OU responds to NCAA eligibility ruling

In a statement, OU Vice President and Director of Athletics Roger Denny said, “We’re grateful for today’s decision. This is a fair outcome for a young man who has handled this process with integrity and resilience. We’re proud to stand with Owen and look forward to supporting him as he returns to competition in a Sooners uniform. “

The Sooners are preparing for their Annual Spring Game this Saturday. The game is set to start at noon.