By Pat Harty

IOWA CITY, Iowa – The NCAA has become an easy target for criticism, and in some cases, deservedly so, especially its handling, or its lack of handling, of NIL and the transfer portal.

But there are times when the primary governing body of college athletics gets it right; like in the case of Iowa offensive lineman Michael Myslinski.

The Jacksonville, Florida native announced Friday on social media that he has received approval for a medical hardship waiver by the NCAA; granting him a sixth-season of eligibility.

Iowa allowed the 6-foot-2, 290-pound Myslinski to participate in spring practice, which concluded on April 25, even though he still hadn’t officially been cleared to play in the 2026 season.

And while the NCAA has made some head-scratching decisions over the years, Myslinski’s case seemed to be a no-brainer because if ever there was somebody who deserved a medical hardship waiver, it was Myslinski, whose career has been disrupted by injuries.

The final ruling by the NCAA was considered just a formality, but you don’t know for sure until it finally happens.

Myslinski played in eight games last season, including filling in at right guard after Kade Pieper was injured in the 26-21 loss at USC. But from 2021-2024, Myslinski only appeared briefly in six games, mostly due to injuries.

Myslinski made his collegiate debut in his first career game as a Hawkeye, playing against Indiana in the 2021 season opener.

However, he didn’t play in another game that season due to a knee injury. And he only appeared in one game in 2022, zero in 2023 and four games in 2024.

Myslinski’s teammates and coaches showed their appreciation by naming him the recipient of the Comeback Player of the Year Award following the 2025 season.

He was also one of 17 players recently named to Iowa’s 2026 Leadership Council, another show of respect by his teammates.

Myslinski was listed as a second-team guard throughout last season.

He then spent spring practice competing with Pieper for the starting center position.

Pieper was thought to have the advantage at center, but Myslinski could also shift back to guard as Iowa faces the daunting task of replacing three All-Big Ten Offensive linemen from last season.

Iowa returns two staters on the offensive line: Pieper and junior left tackle Trevor Lauck.

So to now have Myslinski officially back in the mix for playing time is obviously good news for Iowa offensive line coach George Barnett.

One thing is certain about Myslinski in that he’s loyal and resilient.

He could’ve easily returned home to Florida after the injuries and frustration started to mount.

He also could have said enough with playing football and nobody would have questioned his toughness or his commitment.

Football is a brutal and violent sport, even without the injuries.

But Myslinski has stayed on a difficult course, and now he’s finally being rewarded for his persistence.