Rubio Calls for NCAA to Review its Denial of FSU Football Player's Hardship Waiver

In late 2022, University of Miami football player Darrell Jackson Jr. transferred to Florida State University to play for the Seminoles. At first glance, most would think it was a surprising move, as Miami and Florida State are fierce in-state rivals. However, once the public heard the reasoning for his transfer, it seemed as though everyone – including Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) – understood the situation.

Everyone except the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA).

They have denied Jackson Jr.’s hardship waiver which will force him to sit out a year.

Darrell Jackson Jr. grew up in Havana, Florida, less than half an hour from Tallahassee. He originally began his collegiate career at the University of Maryland but then transferred to Miami in 2022.

However, once his mom fell ill with an undisclosed medical condition, Jackson Jr. made the switch to play at FSU to be closer to his mom.

In March, the NCAA changed its parameters regarding transfers to rein in the massive number of student-athletes switching schools yearly. At the time of Jackson Jr.’s transfer, it was thought that he would be able to play immediately.

Therefore, the NCAA has decidedly to retroactively enact the rule change and not award the hardship waiver, either.

Sen. Rubio, a University of Florida and University of Miami graduate, thought the NCAA’s decision “sends a wrong message,” and called for the NCAA to review its decision.

“I write with disappointment in the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) decision to punish a young athlete who is putting his family first. Darrell Jackson, Jr., a recent transfer to Florida State University, sought a hardship waiver to be near his ailing mother, and was denied,” wrote Sen. Rubio to NCAA President Charlie Baker.

Rubio would go on to mention, “Strong communities are built from strong families. I commend Darrell for his decision to put family first and move home. The NCAA’s decision to deny Darrell’s waiver request sends a wrong message to our young adults when confronted with family health. Darrell’s hardship application deserves a second look. If this is not what hardship waivers are for, then what is?” concluded the Florida senator.

Florida State head coach Mike Norvell was disappointed with the decision as well, stating that Jackson Jr. “came home for a reason.”

“I’m extremely disappointed in it. Just for that young man and just the journey and the reason why he’s here, it’s just sad that he’s gonna miss games,” said Norvell. “This was something that, you know, he came home for a reason.”

Jackson Jr. answered questions following the announcement that his waiver was denied.

“I’m going to continue to be there for my mom and see how things play out,” said Jackson Jr.

The NCAA did not provide the FSU defensive tackle any explanation for the denial of his hardship waiver.

This is a developing story.