Full Breakdown
LSU’s Attempt to Add Former NFL Players Sparks SEC Ban Threat and Fan Backlash
By Drooid · · How we work
Attempted Roster Additions and Conference Reaction
LSU announced plans to add former NFL tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive end Zxavian Harris to its 2026 football roster. Both athletes had spent time in NFL training camps—Wright with the Cleveland Browns and Harris with the New Orleans Saints—after playing under Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss. Because NCAA and SEC rules prohibit professional players from joining college teams, the move directly conflicted with conference policy. The SEC responded by threatening to expel LSU from the league unless the school withdrew the players.
Court Injunction and LSU’s Reversal
A Louisiana state court issued an injunction that temporarily permitted LSU to proceed with the signings despite the rule violation. Following the SEC’s expulsion threat, LSU elected not to add Wright and Harris to the roster, effectively backing down from the contested plan.
Fan Outcry Aimed at SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey
Supporters of the Tigers quickly turned their frustration toward SEC commissioner Greg Sankey, who had led the conference’s warning. College-football analyst David Pollack posted a photo on X showing a large purple billboard in Birmingham, Alabama, that read “Fire Sankey” in gold lettering. The billboard appeared the day before LSU’s in-state game against Louisiana Tech, underscoring the intensity of fan sentiment.
Sankey’s Policy History Provides Context
Sankey has previously shaped major collegiate-sports decisions. He championed the expansion of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament from 68 to 76 teams, a change critics say favors power-conference schools. In football, he has opposed enlarging the College Football Playoff to 24 teams, putting him at odds with conferences such as the Big Ten. The current controversy adds to a pattern of Sankey delivering firm messages to programs that challenge SEC regulations.
Official Statements and Responses
The SEC reiterated its commitment to enforcing eligibility rules, indicating that any violation could result in disciplinary action, including removal from the conference. LSU’s athletic department confirmed the decision to forgo adding the two former professionals, citing the need to remain compliant with conference standards. No further comment was provided by Sankey or the Louisiana court regarding the injunction.