UPDATE: Former ASU Athletes Could Seek Return Following Eligibility Ruling

A federal court ruling that opened the door for certain Class of 2022 athletes to receive a fifth season of eligibility could affect multiple former Arizona State athletes. However, a new clarification has made a potential return more complicated for both the athletes and ASU.

U.S. District Judge Charlotte Sweeney clarified Sunday that the injunction only addresses an athlete’s ability to compete in a fifth season. It does not override the NCAA’s transfer rules, professional-status requirements or roster limits. Players who signed professional contracts cannot return to college, while eligible athletes who remained unsigned may still have an opportunity.

The clarification also means athletes who did not enter the transfer portal during the appropriate window cannot use the ruling to join another program. For eligible former Sun Devils who stayed out of the portal, their options may essentially be Arizona State or nowhere.

That creates a difficult decision for ASU Football. The Sun Devils are currently at or near the 105-player roster limit, and any returning athlete would count toward that cap. Arizona State would have to create a roster spot, potentially moving on from a younger player or freshman to add a more experienced former Sun Devil. ASU men’s basketball, meanwhile, currently has one open roster position.

Former ASU safety Myles Rowser has reportedly explored a return, while linebacker Jordan Crook and defensive lineman Jacob Kongaika were also identified as former Sun Devils who could have been affected by the original ruling. Each player’s situation remains dependent on NCAA rules involving age, professional contracts and roster availability.

There is also risk for programs that make late roster changes. The NCAA filed its intention to appeal Sunday night and is seeking an expedited process. If the injunction is later overturned, athletes who returned under the ruling could be declared ineligible during the season, potentially leaving programs without either the returning veteran or the younger player whose roster spot was used.

Arizona State must now decide whether the experience of a former player is worth that uncertainty or whether it is better to remain committed to the freshmen and younger athletes already on the roster.