Power conferences weigh bans on pro athletes returning to college sports

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 3:10 PM

Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Power conferences weigh bans on pro athletes returning to college sports
Summary

The SEC announced it opposes professional players returning to college competition, following meetings on August 25, 2026. The ACC and Big 12 are also considering similar policies, and the Big Ten is expected to announce its stance soon. The discussions were prompted by Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris leaving the NFL to join LSU. SEC presidents emphasize the importance of college athletes over former professionals, and further deliberations are scheduled during a joint meeting in Birmingham, Alabama. Legal ramifications may arise as the conferences explore enforcement measures for these potential bans.

Source Links
Status Watch
  • SEC supports a policy against professional players returning to college.
  • ACC and Big 12 are also considering similar bans.
  • Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris left the NFL for LSU.
  • Further discussions are planned during a joint meeting in Birmingham.
  • Conferences may face legal action regarding enforcement of new rules.
Latest Updates
  • 3:10 PMYahoo SportsAll 4 power conferences now considering bans on pro players returning to college to play
What they're saying
"

The SEC announced Monday night that professionals should not "return to college competition."

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days