Despite a show-cause, Jeremy Pruitt is back in college football

The NCAA has modified the show-cause penalty previously issued to former Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt, allowing him to join Jacksonville State as an analyst under head coach Charles Kelly. The decision follows a show-cause hearing conducted by the NCAA and Jacksonville State, which proposed a role for Pruitt that would be partially remote and not involve attending games this season due to his suspension. The NCAA's ruling, however, maintains the show-cause penalty until June 2029 for any other institutions wishing to employ Pruitt.

Jacksonville State must adhere to specific restrictions and implement a comprehensive monitoring program, including regular compliance reports. This decision marks a notable development, as few schools challenge show-cause penalties. The NCAA recognized Jacksonville State's efforts and compliance plan as instrumental in allowing Pruitt's return under certain conditions.

Pruitt's legal team had previously sought a preliminary injunction against the NCAA to enable his return to college football amid ongoing legal disputes, including a lawsuit for $100 million in