LSU coach Lane Kiffin defies SEC stance by signing former NFL players

Lane Kiffin, recently hired as LSU’s football head coach, signed former NFL tight end Dae'Quan Wright and defensive tackle Zxavian Harris, both of whom spent this summer pursuing NFL roster spots before being released. The SEC issued a statement on social media insisting that athletes who have signed professional contracts and taken part in pro games should not be allowed to resume college competition. Wright, who previously amassed 1,000 receiving yards under Kiffin at Ole Miss, also appeared in a preseason game for the Cleveland Browns, while Harris logged 122 tackles and 5.5 sacks during his four years with the Rebels.

A Louisiana judge granted the duo a temporary restraining order to preserve a fifth year of eligibility after the NCAA changed its eligibility rules. Multiple sources indicate that any SEC member violating the new directive could suffer penalties such as a 50% suspension for head coaches, a halving of the sport’s operating budget, and loss of SEC voting rights. Kiffin justified his move by suggesting the players would otherwise sign elsewhere, and critics argue the practice threatens the fairness of college football.