Big Ten bans former professional players from college football competition

The Big Ten Conference has unanimously approved a new eligibility rule effective immediately, prohibiting athletes with previous professional experience from competing at member institutions. This includes any player who has signed a professional contract, spent time on a professional roster, or declared for the NFL draft without official withdrawal. The league aims to clarify the boundaries between collegiate and professional athletics in light of current legal challenges facing the NCAA. Additionally, the Big Ten is exploring potential restrictions for other sports as part of a broader regulatory framework. Further developments are anticipated as the conference evaluates the implications for collegiate competitions.

• 8:11 PMYahoo Sports — Why the Big Ten just banned former pro players from returning to college football