Miami's Martell receives hardship waiver, eligible to play in 2019

Incoming Miami quarterback Tate Martell has been granted a hardship waiver by the NCAA and will be eligible to play in 2019.

Martell announced his intention to transfer from Ohio State to the Hurricanes in January.

"We are pleased with this ruling and appreciate the NCAA recognizing that this waiver met the criteria under the membership established guidelines," Miami's director of athletics Blake James said in a statement. "We would like to thank the NCAA, as well as Ohio State University, for their assistance and support throughout the waiver process. We look forward to seeing Tate compete for the Hurricanes this season."

As a graduate transfer without a degree, many thought the quarterback could potentially be forced to sit out the 2019 season.

Martell left the Buckeyes after they landed former five-star recruit Justin Fields from Georgia. He's expected to compete with N'Kosi Perry for Miami's starting quarterback spot.