In a move that has the college football world buzzing, offensive lineman Cole Hutson is trading his Cowboys practice jersey for burnt orange once again. The former Longhorns starter, who spent time with Dallas during minicamp this offseason, is rejoining the Texas roster for the 2026 season after a federal court ruling granted him an extra year of eligibility.
Hutson, a fifth-year senior, filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in July, seeking an additional season after going undrafted and failing to secure an NFL contract. Last week, U.S. District Judge Charlotte Sweeney ruled in favor of Hutson and other players, allowing them to return to college sports. ESPN confirmed the news, noting that Hutson had participated in minicamps with both the Browns and the Cowboys before making his return to Austin.
A Landmark Ruling
The decision has sent shockwaves through the sport, with many fans declaring it the end of the NCAA as we know it. If players can dip their toes into the NFL and then come back to college, what's to stop anyone from doing the same? The reaction on social media was swift and visceral.
"Oh, knew the NCAA was dead but didn’t realize it was dead dead," one user posted on X.
Another lamented, "The game is cooked." Others called it "absolute garbage" and "a joke," with one fan simply stating, "College sports are broken." The sentiment is clear: this ruling could change everything.
Hutson's Impact at Texas
Hutson was a key piece of the Longhorns' offensive line, starting 23 games over four seasons. He primarily played left guard but also filled in at center and tackle when needed. His versatility and experience will be a huge boost for a Texas team with national championship aspirations. Head coach Steve Sarkisian will surely welcome back a player who knows the system inside and out.
The ruling comes amid the NCAA's push for a 5-for-5 plan, which would give all players five years of eligibility. This case, however, goes further, allowing athletes who have already used their four years to return for a fifth. It's a slippery slope that could open the floodgates for other players to follow suit.
For Texas, this is a win. The Longhorns are already tipped to challenge Georgia's SEC supremacy, and adding a seasoned veteran like Hutson only strengthens their case. But for the NCAA, it's a nightmare scenario, raising questions about how college rosters are funded and whether the organization can enforce any of its rules.
As Hutson prepares to suit up for the 2026 season, one thing is certain: the landscape of college football is shifting, and this could be just the beginning. For now, Longhorns fans are celebrating, while the rest of the sport wonders what's next.
