Big Ten Bans Players With Pro Contracts From College Football

The Big Ten Conference unanimously voted on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, to prohibit football players who have signed professional contracts, declared for the NFL Draft, or participated in professional training camps from competing in its league. The decisive action establishes a clear boundary in response to a wave of legal challenges that have allowed former college athletes to regain eligibility after pursuing professional opportunities.

The rule change was prompted by recent court orders, including a Louisiana temporary restraining order that enabled former Ole Miss tight end DaeQuan Wright and defensive lineman Zxavian Harris to join the LSU roster. Both players spent time with NFL organizations after their college careers and were granted an additional season of eligibility by a state judge. LSU head coach Lane Kiffin has defended the program's recruitment of these players, stating that due to the court rulings, "they're either going to play for you or they're going to play somewhere else around the country."

The situation has created a significant rift within the Southeastern Conference. The SEC issued a statement on Monday, August 24, firmly opposing the return of...