The University of Houston football team is in a holding pattern regarding the eligibility of wide receiver Stephon Johnson and safety Myles Rowser, according to head coach Willie Fritz. Speaking on Monday, Fritz confirmed that both players have been cleared to practice with the team, but final approval from the NCAA is still pending before they can take the field in a game.
Legal Challenge and Temporary Restraining Order
Johnson and Rowser are part of a class-action lawsuit challenging the NCAA’s age-based eligibility rule, which affected athletes from the high school class of 2022. Last week, a Dallas court granted a temporary restraining order in favor of 41 plaintiffs, including Johnson, allowing for a fifth year of college eligibility.
Fritz expressed cautious optimism about the situation, stating, “Still not everything is completed and done. We’re waiting on that. Hopefully we get it all figured out and finalized here by the end of the week.”
Compliance Process and Caution
The coach emphasized the importance of ensuring full compliance before declaring the players eligible. “It’s a tricky process,” Fritz said. “The last thing you want to do is declare somebody eligible and he’s not eligible. We’re waiting to make sure that’s completely and totally finalized. We want to be 1,000% sure.”
The university’s compliance office is awaiting final word from the NCAA regarding both players’ status.
Stephon Johnson's Journey
Johnson rejoined the team near the end of preseason camp. He has played three seasons with the Cougars, but missed most of last year due to a foot injury. His request for a medical waiver was denied by the NCAA in January, which seemingly ended his college career before a series of court challenges this summer.
Myles Rowser's Background
Rowser, an All-Big 12 safety from Arizona State, began practicing with the Cougars last week. Known by the nickname “Ghost,” Rowser was a two-year starter for the Sun Devils. He declared for the NFL draft but went undrafted and received an invitation to the Seattle Seahawks rookie minicamp.
In 2024, Rowser posted a team-high 98 tackles as Arizona State won the Big 12 championship and reached the College Football Playoff. He followed that with 84 tackles last season, earning All-Big 12 honors for the second consecutive year.
