SEC adopts strict sanctions for schools that recruit former professional athletes

The Southeastern Conference enacted a new regulation that prevents any member institution from adding athletes who have previously signed professional contracts. The rule, approved unanimously on August 25, carries penalties that include a 50 percent suspension of the head coach’s season, a cut of half the sport’s operating budget, and the revocation of certain conference voting privileges. The decision responds to several former NFL free-agents seeking to return to college football after a Louisiana court granted them extra eligibility.

The SEC argued that allowing such returns would blur the line between amateur and professional sports and hurt opportunities for high-school and current college players. The Big Ten had earlier adopted similar restrictions, and the situation has been highlighted by LSU’s addition of former Ole Miss players Dae'Quan Wright and Xzavian Harris, both of whom signed NFL contracts as undrafted free agents. LSU coach Lane Kiffin expressed disagreement with the policy but noted the unique legal context of the two players.