Louisiana judge deals blow to NCAA, clears ex-NFL players to suit up for LSULSU coach Lane Kiffin’s chances of having former NFL players resume college football after brief stints in the NFL improved after a Louisiana judge issued a preliminary injunction against the NCAA.
Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris have been given the green light to return to college football, as per the judge's orders issued on Thursday, September 3, 2026.
The ruling comes in a high-stakes eligibility case involving the NCAA and the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
East Baton Rouge Parish Judge William Jorden, who ruled the night before LSU was due to submit its 105-man roster to the Southeastern Conference.
For context, just last week, the SEC announced hefty potential punishment for football and basketball teams that bring in ex-pros.
Wright and Harris, both former Ole Miss players, said in a lengthy court hearing on Thursday, September 3, that they plan to reunite with their former coach, Lane Kiffin.
The LSU team are set to play their opening game of the season on Saturday night against Clemson.
They are among the 42 players who are suing the NCAA to play a fifth and last season of college sports.
After the ruling, the LSU can list some former NFL players on its roster.
But the bigger question is how many games they might be entitled to play; this remains vague as the matter proceeds through the court proceedings.