The SEC is finally taking a stand against NFL players returning to college sports to take advantage of their fifth year of eligibility.
Over the past week, Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers have landed commitments from two NFL rookies, tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive tackle Zxavian Harris. Naturally, that sparked outrage within the college football community.
In an effort to put an end to this madness, the Big Ten passed a rule that prohibits NFL players from joining the conference. On Tuesday night, the SEC took the same exact measures.
The SEC just announced that the following players will be prohibited from playing college football this fall:
- Previously declared for the NFL
- Signed a contract with an NFL or other professional football league team
- Been listed on an NFL roster
This decision was made after SEC presidents, chancellors, and athletics directors sat down to discuss this hot topic.
“The commissioner is authorized to enforce this expectation with penalties against members institutions,” the SEC said in its press release.
© Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images.
The SEC took it one step further.
Not only has the SEC put its foot down on NFL players returning to college football, its new guidelines prevent professional basketball players from returning to the NCAA.
“SEC Follows the Big Ten here with NFL players. A twist — the SEC adds pro basketball, too,” ESPN’s Pete Thamel noted.
As you’d imagine, the SEC is receiving a ton of support for implementing this rule before the 2026 football season begins.
“First time the SEC did something for the good of college sports in a long time,” one fan wrote on X.
“Good, college football is for college players,” another fan commented.
Hopefully, this will finally put this drama-filled saga to rest.
