The Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten announced Tuesday that they will bar any athlete who has signed a professional contract from returning to play college sports. The move follows a recent NCAA rule change that extended eligibility to five seasons within five years, sparking confusion and a series of legal challenges.
New conference policies
Both conferences said the new policies are intended to preserve the integrity of college athletics and protect scholarship opportunities for current students. Under the rules, any former professional—whether in football, basketball or another sport—will be ineligible to compete for a college team, even if they wish to return to complete their education.
NCAA eligibility rule
In June, the NCAA approved a rule allowing athletes to play five seasons over five years, with the eligibility clock starting when a student enrolls full‑time or at the start of the academic year after their 19th birthday, whichever comes first. The rule was applied to athletes graduating high school in 2023, leaving the Class of 2022 excluded and prompting a wave of lawsuits.
Legal battles continue
Several athletes, including former Ole Miss hopefuls Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, have sued for the right to return to college competition. A federal judge in Denver initially ruled in favor of a class‑action suit filed by basketball player Brock Wisne, but an appeals court temporarily halted that order. Meanwhile, state courts across the country have issued varying injunctions, with at least ten judges granting relief to players.
Impact on college programs
College coaches are now facing uncertainty as they plan rosters for the upcoming football and basketball seasons. Teams that have already locked in their lineups must consider the possibility of additional eligible players re‑entering the transfer portal, should any courts overturn the conference bans.
Looking ahead
Legal experts say the disputes are likely to continue well beyond the current sports seasons. Until courts reach final decisions, the SEC and Big Ten policies will remain in effect, reinforcing the principle that once an athlete turns professional, their college playing days are over.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
