Several Conferences Considering Ban on NFL Players Returning to College

Multiple collegiate sports organizations, encompassing all four major conferences and the American, are contemplating a restriction on NFL players' return to college. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten are deliberating separately on Tuesday regarding eligibility concerns. The American Athletic Conference (AAC) and Big 12 are reportedly engaging in similar discussions.

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is also reportedly mulling over a comparable restriction on NFL athletes. These actions are being contemplated in response to recent legal challenges to the NCAA's ban on professional athletes participating in college sports, which now allows players five years to complete five seasons (up from four) starting at their 19th birthday or upon entering college, whichever comes first.

The SEC has expressed concern that permitting such activity would blur the line between college and professional sports, create competitive inequities, and diminish opportunities for high school and current college athletes. One of the plaintiffs in the recent SEC lawsuit, Dae'Quan Wright of the Cleveland Browns, has already secured a spot with LSU following his waiver by the Browns.

Another plaintiff, Zxavian Harris of Ole Miss, has also been signed by the Saints but was waived on August 8 and subsequently joined LSU. Texas's Cole Hutson, who participated in NFL training camps, was allowed to return to the Longhorns despite not being signed with a team, but this decision is currently under dispute. While other players are contemplating legal action, the situation is considered unique, specifically concerning the freshman class of 2022, as previously reported.

The conferences are likely taking a stand due to the ambiguity surrounding similar issues in men's basketball. Players may resort to suing conferences in addition to the NCAA in future legal battles as well.