The college football scene is continually changing in the NIL era, now allowing former NFL players to return to college football. A Louisiana judge issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) permitting several NFL rookies to regain college eligibility for a fifth year despite their professional play.
While these former NFL players have the option to play in the NCAA next season, the Big Ten recently enacted a rule prohibiting them from joining any of their conference teams. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, individuals who declared for the NFL Draft and did not withdraw, appeared on an NFL roster, or signed a professional league contract will be barred from Big Ten rosters.
The Big Ten’s decision is significant as other major conferences, including the Power 4, might align with this policy. The SEC is considering a similar restriction, which could affect LSU head coach Lane Kiffin.
“Expectation is that the SEC will talk over a similar rule at today’s meetings in Birmingham. Big Ten has meeting later today,” noted On3’s Pete Nakos.
Kiffin already identified two NFL rookies for potential recruitment — tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive lineman Zxavian Harris. Both were recently released from their teams, the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints, respectively, after playing under Kiffin at Ole Miss.
However, if the SEC adopts a policy akin to the Big Ten’s, neither Wright nor Harris could join Kiffin at Baton Rouge, leading them to likely enter the transfer portal. Additionally, if other key players return to college football, Kiffin would be unable to pursue them.
Other NFL rookies, involving Seattle Seahawks running backs TJ Harden (SMU) and Anthony Hankerson (Oregon State), Arizona Cardinals safety Wydett Williams Jr. (Ole Miss), and Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Jack Pyburn (LSU), were also granted eligibility for another college year.
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