Rex Connors, a senior defensive back for the UC Davis Aggies, is striving to return for the 2026 football season after suffering a season-ending knee injury. Connors, who holds the record as the Aggies’ all-time tackle leader, sustained the injury during a Big Sky Conference game against Weber State at UC Davis Health Stadium on September 27, 2023. Following the injury, UC Davis submitted a waiver to the NCAA in hopes of granting Connors a medical redshirt, which would allow him to compete once more in 2026.
The NCAA’s Rules Committee has initially denied this request, prompting the Aggies to file an appeal. The situation has become complex due to Connors’ participation in five games this season, including the contest against Weber State. For a player to qualify for a medical redshirt, they must not have participated in more than four games. However, UC Davis argues that their season opener against Mercer University, part of the FCS Kickoff Classic in Montgomery, Alabama, on August 23, 2023, should be classified as a no contest. The game was halted with the Aggies leading 23-17 due to severe weather conditions, including thunder and lightning.
Entering their bye week, UC Davis holds a 3-0 record in the Big Sky Conference and a 5-1 overall standing, with the potential for a 6-1 record if the Mercer game were to count. UC Davis is advocating for Connors to receive an additional year of eligibility, claiming they participated in only four games this season, excluding the Mercer contest.
Head Coach’s Determination
Tim Plough, head coach of the Aggies, expressed his frustration over the NCAA’s decision following a convincing 45-24 victory against Northern Arizona on October 11, 2023. “I don’t think that’s right,” Plough said. Should the appeal be denied, the Aggies plan to pursue further appeals until a favorable decision is reached regarding Connors’ eligibility and the classification of the Mercer game.
“I’m really hopeful we can win this appeal with the NCAA,” Plough stated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to advocating for Connors. “They haven’t dealt with Tim Plough yet. I won’t stop until they give me an answer that I’m OK with.”
In addition to Connors, another senior player, linebacker Porter Connors, has also missed recent games due to a foot injury sustained during the same game against Weber State. Plough reiterated the importance of allowing both players to participate in their senior year: “I just want them to be able to play their senior year.”
The Aggies will resume Big Sky action on Saturday, October 25, 2023, when they face Northern Colorado. The game is scheduled to kick off at noon PDT. As the team navigates these challenges, the focus remains on securing a positive outcome for both Connors and the program.
