SEC enforces ban on professional athletes returning to college sports

The Southeastern Conference announced a ban on professional athletes returning to college sports as of August 25, 2026. This decision follows a recent ruling granting additional eligibility to players from the 2022-23 academic year, which prompted NFL players to seek waivers to return to college. Athletes like Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris were looking to join Louisiana State University under new head coach Lane Kiffin but are now prohibited from doing so. The ban aligns with a similar policy enacted by the Big Ten earlier the same day.

• 11:28 PMYahoo Sports — SEC banning professional athletes from returning to collegiate level