LSU Targets Ex-NFL Players
Lane Kiffin's program seeks to add Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, sparking controversy and potential SEC conflict
LSU's football program, led by Lane Kiffin, is attempting to add former NFL players, including Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, who were waived by their NFL teams and are seeking to return to college football. This move has sparked controversy and potential conflict with the SEC.
Dae'Quan Wright was waived by the Cleveland Browns on August 24, 2026, while Zxavian Harris was released by the New Orleans Saints during training camp. Both players have entered the transfer portal with plans to join LSU, despite having already spent time on NFL rosters.
The SEC has released a statement saying that college athletes, not professional athletes, have been at the heart of the Southeastern Conference. However, Lane Kiffin has defended recruiting former NFL players, stating that if LSU didn't do it, some other program would.
The Big Ten has announced a rule that prohibits players who have declared for the NFL draft and did not withdraw, appeared on an NFL roster, or signed a contract with a pro league from being on a Big Ten roster. This move is seen as a response to the growing trend of former NFL players seeking to return to college football.
A Louisiana court has granted a temporary restraining order to 16 football players, including Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, allowing them to return to college sports. However, not everyone is supportive of this move, with former NFL running back Damien Harris calling Dae'Quan Wright's decision to return to college football 'embarrassing' and 'elementary'.
The SEC is considering taking action against LSU for recruiting former NFL players, with SEC presidents set to urge their athletic departments not to sign players who have signed professional contracts. This move could have significant implications for the future of college football and the eligibility of former NFL players.
## Why it matters The recruitment of former NFL players by LSU and other colleges has significant implications for the sport. It raises questions about the eligibility of players who have already played professionally and the potential for an uneven playing field. The SEC and other conferences are taking steps to address this issue, but it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in maintaining the integrity of college football.
## What happens next The SEC is expected to take further action on this issue, with presidents and athletic directors discussing potential rule changes to prohibit the recruitment of former NFL players. The Big Ten's new rule is seen as a precedent for other conferences to follow, and it is likely that we will see further developments on this issue in the coming weeks and months.
