The Big Ten Conference announced Tuesday that it has adopted a new rule preventing football players who have signed a professional contract, been on a professional roster, or declared for the NFL Draft without withdrawing from returning to compete for any Big Ten school. The decision was unanimous among conference members.

Why the rule was adopted

The policy comes after two high‑profile cases involving players who left the NFL and then chose to enroll at Louisiana State University (LSU). Tight end Dae’Quan Wright, who had spent time with Virginia Tech, Ole Miss and dressed for the Cleveland Browns’ second preseason game, entered the NCAA transfer portal and committed to LSU. Similarly, Zxavian Harris, an undrafted free agent who signed with the New Orleans Saints before being waived on August 8, also returned to LSU.

Context of NCAA eligibility changes

These moves occurred shortly after the NCAA revised its eligibility rules this summer, allowing athletes five full seasons of competition and eliminating traditional redshirt years. The Big Ten’s new regulation seeks to preserve competitive balance and uphold the principle that college athletics remain for student‑athletes, not former professionals.

Reactions from other conferences

The SEC issued a statement expressing disagreement with LSU’s recent player additions, emphasizing that “college athletes, not former professional athletes, have been at the heart of the Southeastern Conference.” The conference warned that allowing former pros to return could blur the line between amateur and professional sports, create equity concerns, and limit opportunities for high‑school and current college athletes. The SEC also highlighted the need to advance the Protect College Sports Act.

The ACC is reported to discuss related eligibility issues at a meeting on August 26, while the SEC plans its own meeting later today.

Implications for student‑athletes

Under the new Big Ten rule, any player who has signed a professional contract, been on a professional roster, or declared for the NFL Draft without later withdrawing will be ineligible for Big Ten competition. The conference indicated it may consider similar restrictions for professional athletes in other sports in the future.

Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.