The National Football League sent a memo to all clubs on Wednesday reiterating an existing rule: any player who signs an NFL contract, is later cut, and then returns to college football for the 2026 season may not be signed by an NFL team for the remainder of the current season.
The memo, obtained by ESPN, clarifies that while a cut player remains a free agent and could sign with another NFL franchise or join the Canadian Football League, returning to college makes them ineligible for NFL roster spots this year. Additionally, those players will not be able to enter a future NFL Draft.
The issue gained attention after tight end Dae’Quan Wright cleared waivers following his release by the Cleveland Browns. Wright was expected to enroll at LSU and reunite with former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin. Another former Ole Miss teammate, Zxavian Harris, who was cut by the New Orleans Saints, is also slated to join Kiffin at LSU. Both athletes obtained temporary restraining orders granting them an extra year of eligibility.
Hours after Wright’s waiver clearance, the SEC and Big Ten announced new eligibility guidelines that would bar any athlete who has signed a professional contract, declared for the NFL Draft, or participated in a pro training camp from competing in conference play. The ACC and Big 12 are expected to adopt similar rules.
Attorney Ryan Downton, who represents several players seeking a return to college athletics, told OutKick’s Trey Wallace that his clients are developing a legal strategy to challenge both the NCAA and the conference policies. Downton described the conference actions as “cartel‑like conduct” that undermines existing court orders against the NCAA.
Implications for players and colleges
If the memo’s enforcement stands, athletes who attempt to resume college football after a brief professional stint will face a year without NFL opportunities and will be barred from entering the draft. Colleges, particularly those in the SEC, Big Ten, ACC, and Big 12, will need to navigate the new eligibility rules when considering former pros for their rosters.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between professional leagues, college athletics, and governing bodies over player eligibility and the balance of amateurism versus professional opportunity.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
