The Southeastern Conference (SEC) will not penalize LSU after conference presidents met Thursday to discuss sanctions related to the university's pursuit of former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris. The potential penalties, which could have included expulsion from the conference, were averted when LSU decided not to add the players to its roster.
In a statement following the meeting, the SEC indicated that discussions would continue regarding conference expectations and responsibilities. "Those discussions will continue as the conference and its member universities work toward an appropriate resolution," the statement read.
LSU President Wade Rousse informed SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey on Wednesday that the issue was moot, as the university was in compliance with conference rules by not rostering the players. "The roster is now locked for the season," Rousse stated. "LSU complied with SEC rules. This issue is moot."
Rousse did not participate in the full meeting, according to ESPN, due to pending litigation surrounding the matter. The SEC had previously filed a lawsuit against LSU in federal court, alleging the university engaged in a "deliberate and coordinated campaign to recruit professional athletes" in violation of league rules. A hearing scheduled for Wednesday has since been postponed indefinitely. It remains unclear if the lawsuit will proceed now that LSU has withdrawn its pursuit of Wright and Harris. Attorneys for the players stated they are considering their legal options.