Nick Saban warns LSU regarding legal battle over former professional players
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 3:24 AM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Retired coach Nick Saban issued a public warning to LSU regarding the school's ongoing legal efforts to recruit former professional athletes. A Louisiana judge recently granted an injunction allowing LSU to pursue deals with former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, despite a standing SEC rule that prohibits former pros from competing in the conference. Saban cautioned that winning this initial legal battle could carry long-term risks if the SEC continues to appeal the ruling, suggesting that a victory in court today may lead to detrimental consequences later. The SEC has filed a counter-lawsuit to prevent the school from forcing the conference to accept the arrangement. Meanwhile, LSU continues to explore adding more former professionals, including former Utah defensive back Blake Cotton, while the conference and other SEC programs assess potential next steps including possible suspension or expulsion.
- •A Louisiana judge allowed LSU to negotiate with former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris.
- •The SEC rule currently prohibits former professional athletes from participating in conference competition.
- •Nick Saban warned that future appeals could result in negative outcomes for the university.
- •LSU is currently showing interest in signing former Denver Broncos defensive back Blake Cotton.
- •Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr suggested the SEC explore all measures including suspension or expulsion.
- 3:24 AMYahoo Sports — “I’d Be Very Careful”: Nick Saban Warns Lane Kiffin’s LSU Could Face Harsh Consequences for Winning Lawsuit to Bring NFL Players
"Nick Saban has watched college football change in ways that would have sounded ridiculous a decade ago. The transfer portal, NIL money, and a game that looks a lot more like professional sports.
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