The Big Ten Conference is preparing to enact a new rule that will prohibit its member schools from recruiting or allowing players who have previously declared for the NFL draft, been on an NFL roster, or signed a professional contract to compete at the collegiate level. This decision follows LSU's recent recruitment of two former NFL players, Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, to play for the Southeastern Conference school in the upcoming season.
The eligibility of these athletes has been a point of contention, stemming from a recent court ruling that granted some players an additional year of eligibility. LSU coach Brian Kiffin defended his team's actions, stating that the recruited players were made available through injunctions and portal entry, making them eligible for recruitment by any program. He noted that many other college football programs are also recruiting such athletes.
However, the SEC has publicly stated its position that college athletes who have signed professional contracts should not be permitted to return to college competition. Ohio State coach Ryan Day acknowledged the possibility of considering such players but expressed his personal disapproval of the practice, emphasizing the need for roster finality.
The Big Ten's forthcoming rule aims to address what it perceives as an eligibility crisis, preventing a scenario where athletes can transition between professional leagues and college football. The conference's move indicates a growing division among major athletic conferences regarding the interpretation and application of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules and player eligibility.
Dae’Quan Wright was previously a member of the Cleveland Browns, and Zxavian Harris attended the NFL Scouting Combine in February 2026. Their recruitment by LSU has highlighted a complex and evolving landscape in college athletics, where legal rulings and conference policies are increasingly shaping team rosters and competitive dynamics.