The NFL has reinforced its stance on players returning to college while holding professional contracts. According to a memo acquired by ESPN, any player who has signed an NFL contract and then cut must remain a free agent if they return to college sports during that season. Although these players can sign with another NFL team or the Canadian Football League (CFL), they are restricted from participating in college athletics for the current season.
This announcement impacts players like Dae’Quan Wright, who was released by the Cleveland Browns and cleared waivers. Wright intended to join Louisiana State University (LSU) to reconnect with former coach Lane Kiffin. Similarly, Zxavian Harris, another player released from the New Orleans Saints, plans to join LSU.
Recent policy changes by the SEC and Big Ten further complicate these situations. New regulations prevent athletes who have been affiliated with professional sports teams, or engaged in professional training camps, from competing in their conferences. These rules will soon be adopted by the ACC and Big 12 conferences.
Legal measures are being considered against the NCAA and these conferences. Attorney Ryan Downton, representing the affected athletes, criticized the SEC’s policies, labeling them as ‘cartel-like conduct,’ suggesting that the NCAA defies court orders when member conferences unilaterally introduce new guidelines.
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