LSU football news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
SEC sued LSU and coach Lane Kiffin to block ex-NFL players Zxavian Harris and Dae'Quan Wright from playing. A Louisiana judge granted an injunction, but LSU left them off the.
Background
The dispute stems from LSU recruiting players who signed NFL contracts but want to return to college after the NCAA expanded eligibility to five years. The SEC argues this violates its professionalization rules and threatens competitive balance, while LSU, backed by state officials, asserts the players' right to eligibility. The case highlights the NCAA's weakened oversight and the evolving landscape of college sports.
How it unfolded
- Sep 2, 2026Reports emerge that the SEC is considering penalties including forfeitures and possible expulsion if LSU plays former NFL players.
- Sep 3, 2026The SEC files a federal lawsuit against LSU, Lane Kiffin, and athletic director Verge Ausberry to block the players.
- Sep 4, 2026A Louisiana judge grants a preliminary injunction allowing the players to be rostered, but LSU later omits them from the roster submitted to the College Sports Commission.
- Sep 5, 2026LSU plays Clemson in its season opener without Harris and Wright, despite the injunction.
Who’s saying what
- SEC
- The SEC argues that allowing former pros to play violates conference rules and undermines competitive fairness.
- LSU
- LSU and coach Lane Kiffin contend the players are eligible under NCAA rules and are pushing the envelope to improve the team.
- Fans
- Some LSU fans embrace the 'villain' role, with a sign in the facility reading 'If you want to win at the highest level, you have to become the villain in someone else's story.'
Still unverified
Reports of possible SEC expulsion or game boycotts are unconfirmed and described as extremely unlikely.