Clemson coach calls NFL players returning to play college football ’embarrassing’ for the sport

Clemson's head coach Dabo Swinney has criticized NFL players returning to college football as "embarrassing" for the sport. Clemson is scheduled to play against LSU, a team in the process of recruiting such players. Swinney expressed frustration with the lack of governance in college football, stating that "it’s a joke" and that "never did I think I'd be living in an era like this."

Former Cleveland Browns tight end Dae'Quan Wright, along with defensive lineman Zxavian Harris and defensive back Blake Cotton, have been practicing with LSU under first-year head coach Lane Kiffin. However, it remains undecided whether they will ever play for LSU or any other team. All Power Five conferences, along with three of the Group of Six conferences, have barred former NFL players from returning to college football, leading to court challenges.

Kiffin defended the decision by saying his choices are made in the best interest of the players, and if players are being paid like professionals, college teams should be allowed to make late roster additions. Swinney acknowledged that players have the right to find a home and continue their careers but expressed frustration with the lack of clear rules in college football.