Story perspectives

SEC Bars Ex-NFL Players, Forcing LSU Fifth-Year Plan

8/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

SEC declared former professional athletes should not return to college competition.
LSU added defensive lineman Zxavian Harris after the New Orleans Saints waived him.
Coach Lane Kiffin said Dae'Quan Wright will join LSU if cleared and granted a fifth year.
Louisiana judge issued a temporary restraining order on June 23, 2026 affecting 16 ex-NFL players.
Analyst Paul Finebaum called the signings a norm-shattering move that may force SEC policy review.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock—four seasons of competition within five calendar years—governs roughly 1,200 schools and still requires athletes to maintain amateur status. On June 23 2026 the SEC issued a restraining order against 16 former NFL players, echoing that eligibility limit and prompting Coach Lane Kiffin and analyst Paul Finebaum to question conference policy.

1 of 2

Story summary

SEC declared former professional athletes should not return to college competition.
LSU added defensive lineman Zxavian Harris after the New Orleans Saints waived him.
Coach Lane Kiffin said Dae'Quan Wright will join LSU if cleared and granted a fifth year.
Louisiana judge issued a temporary restraining order on June 23, 2026 affecting 16 ex-NFL players.
Analyst Paul Finebaum called the signings a norm-shattering move that may force SEC policy review.

1 / 2