Full Breakdown
Dae'Quan Wright Becomes First Active NFL Player to Enter the NCAA Transfer Portal
8/24/2026, 11:21:25 AM
Core Event: Waiver and Transfer-Portal Entry
The Cleveland Browns waived tight end Dae'Quan Wright in early August 2026. He then entered the NCAA transfer portal, becoming the first player on an NFL roster to do so while still under contract. If he clears waivers, he has an agreement to join Louisiana State University (LSU) for the 2026 college season.
Background & Context: Eligibility Rule and Court Injunctions
The NCAA’s new five-year eligibility rule for Division I athletes begins in the 2026 season and does not automatically apply to those who started college in 2022-23 and have used four seasons.
A July 31 ruling by Colorado state judge Charlotte Sweeney opened a legal pathway for the 2022 class to seek a fifth season. A Louisiana court issued a temporary restraining order on August 20 granting 16 former college players—including Wright—a one-week window to enter the portal and pursue additional eligibility. The Tenth Circuit later stayed a broader federal decision, leaving the state-court orders intact.
Data & Statistics
- 2025 season at Ole Miss: 39 receptions, 635 yards, 5 touchdowns (second-team All-SEC).
- Career collegiate totals: 113 catches for 1,603 yards, including 1,029 yards over his final two seasons.
Official Statements & Responses
Browns offensive coordinator Todd Monken said Wright’s limited preseason participation resulted from a medical issue and called the situation “crazy,” noting uncertainty about his future.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Wright is believed to be the first player who could play for an NFL team, and then go back to play in college,” — Adam Schefter
- “I think there’s a lot of negatives that are involved around this,” — Dan Lanning
Timeline
- July 31 – Colorado judge’s ruling enables 2022-class athletes to seek a fifth year.
- August 20 – Louisiana court issues a temporary restraining order for 16 players, including Wright.
- Early August 2026 – Browns waive Wright; he enters the transfer portal.
- Late August 2026 – NCAA-approved five-year eligibility rule takes effect.
- August 29 (scheduled) – College football season begins, coinciding with the period when released NFL players could join college rosters.
What’s Next
NFL teams must finalize 53-man rosters by the end of August. Players cut after the deadline could activate their portal agreements and enroll at a college program for the 2026 season, subject to NCAA eligibility verification. LSU is positioned to add Wright pending waiver clearance, while other programs evaluate similar opportunities among the athletes granted temporary restraining orders.
