Lincoln Riley blames NCAA for mental struggles of DJ Wingfield, others in waiver process

As USC starts training camp, DJ Wingfield is still waiting to hear on his waiver from the NCAA. He was believed to have one season of eligibility remaining due to the NCAA waiver for players who have at least one season at a non-NCAA program.

However, Wingfield has yet to secure a waiver and recently filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, seeking an injunction as he looks for clarity. Asked about Wingfield’s situation Friday, Lincoln Riley blasted the NCAA’s handling of the process, as well as others across the country.

He also said the program is doing what it can to help former Purdue lineman from a mental standpoint, though admitted it’s been challenging. That said, Riley said it doesn’t seem unique to Wingfield.

“He’s not doing very good,” Riley told reporters. “I’m not supposed to comment on these things, but what’s happening with that – and not just DJ, across the country – just isn’t right. I’ve never seen anything like it in all my years of coaching. And I’ve been a part of a lot of different unique situations that come up. But this one’s a new one.

“And the crazy thing is, it’s not DJ. There’s guys all over the country that are just in absolute limbo right now. Watching the kid push through it is amazing because what he’s going through, I can’t even begin to imagine. We’re trying to support him the best we can. It’s not easy. It’s not a good situation. I probably honestly said more than they want me to say, but oh well.”

Prior to filing his suit, Wingfield hired prominent attorney Darren Heitner to represent him. In the complaint, he said he stands to make roughly $210,000 through NIL at USC if he’s able to play.

DJ Wingfield began his career at El Camino Junior College, where he played 22 games over two years. He then played two seasons at New Mexico in 2022 and spent the 2024 campaign at Purdue before arriving at USC this offseason.

The NCAA waiver was issued in December. According to NCAA guidance, if an athlete has time remaining in their period of eligibility to use during the 2025-26 academic year based on relief provided due to impacts of COVID-19, they can return for another season provided that they used at least one season at a non-NCAA institution.

USC started training camp this week ahead of the program’s second season in the Big Ten. The Trojans will open the 2025 campaign against FBS newcomer Missouri State Aug. 30.

Pete Nakos contributed.