Wisconsin’s Nyzier Fourqurean Ends Eligibility Fight for 2024 Season

Wisconsin cornerback Nyzier Fourqurean has officially withdrawn his lawsuit against the NCAA, concluding his pursuit of an additional year of eligibility. Fourqurean announced his decision on October 20, 2023, expressing disappointment over the lengthy legal process that ultimately left him unable to play this season.

In a post on social media platform X, Fourqurean explained that he could no longer keep his coaches and teammates in suspense while awaiting a court decision. “Very disappointing,” he remarked, highlighting the emotional toll of the situation.

Fourqurean initially sought to extend his playing time at Wisconsin, arguing that his first two seasons at Grand Valley State, a Division II program, should not count against his eligibility. A federal court had granted him a preliminary injunction in February, allowing him to play pending the outcome of his case. However, in July, the U.S. Court of Appeals overturned that decision, complicating his status further.

The legal proceedings were set to go to trial in September 2023, but the date has since been postponed to 2026. Fourqurean had requested an injunction to play during this period, but no ruling has been issued on that request. He noted in his post that he was informed a ruling would be forthcoming during 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 added.

As the Badgers prepare to face Illinois in their home finale, Fourqurean’s absence will be felt on the field. Wisconsin holds a record of 3-7, with a conference record of 1-6 in the Big Ten. The team is scheduled to conclude its season on November 29 against Minnesota.

Coach Luke Fickell expressed frustration over the lack of a timely decision, labeling the situation as “unacceptable.” He lamented the challenges Fourqurean faced, stating, “To see what has happened to Nyzier is a shame.”

Fourqurean, who enrolled at Grand Valley State in 2020 during a season disrupted by the pandemic, played there for two years before transferring to Wisconsin in 2023. During his time with the Badgers, he started all 12 games last season, accumulating 51 tackles and one interception. He also started five of the last six games in 2023.

In closing his announcement, Fourqurean expressed gratitude to Coach Fickell and the University of Wisconsin for their support throughout this challenging period. He stated, “I have been able to practice and be around the team as normal and have improved tremendously over the year. 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.”