Wisconsin’s Nyzier Fourqurean Ends Legal Fight for Extra Year

Wisconsin cornerback Nyzier Fourqurean has officially ended his pursuit of an extra year of eligibility by dropping his lawsuit against the NCAA. Fourqurean announced his decision via a post on social media platform X, expressing disappointment in the lengthy legal process that left his coaches and teammates in limbo.

“I could no longer keep my coaches and teammates waiting for a decision from the judge,” Fourqurean stated on Friday. “Very disappointing.” His legal battle centered on his belief that the two years he spent at Grand Valley State, a Division II program, should not count toward his NCAA eligibility.

In February, U.S. District Judge William Conley granted Fourqurean a preliminary injunction to play while his case was in progress. However, this decision was overturned by a federal appeals court in July. A trial originally scheduled for last month was postponed until 2026, leaving Fourqurean in a difficult position as he sought an injunction that would allow him to participate in the current season.

The cornerback revealed that during a hearing call, he was informed a ruling would be expected in the last week of September, coinciding with Wisconsin’s bye week. “My coaches, teammates and I waited and waited, and still nothing from the judge since,” he wrote.

Fourqurean’s announcement comes just before Wisconsin (3-7, 1-6 Big Ten) prepares for its home finale against Illinois (7-3, 4-3, No. 21 College Football Playoff). The team is set to conclude its season on November 29, 2023, at Minnesota (6-4, 4-3).

Head coach Luke Fickell voiced his frustrations last month, calling the lack of a ruling “unacceptable” and lamenting the challenges faced by Fourqurean. “To see what has happened to Nyzier is a shame,” Fickell added.

Fourqurean joined Grand Valley State in 2020, but the pandemic led to a cancellation of the season. He played for the team in 2021 and 2022 before transferring to Wisconsin in 2023. During his time with the Badgers, he started all 12 games last season, tallying 51 tackles and one interception. He continued to be a key player, starting five of the last six games in 2023.

In his farewell message, Fourqurean expressed gratitude toward Coach Fickell and the University of Wisconsin for their support during his time with the team. “I have been able to practice and be around the team as normal and have improved tremendously over the year,” he noted. “With huge goals for myself and this team, I am super disappointed to not be able to make a positive impact for our team on the field. I look forward to my pro day and an opportunity with an NFL team.”

As the season progresses, the future remains bright for Fourqurean, who aims to showcase his skills to professional teams.