LSU secures court win to roster ex-NFL players despite SEC opposition

A Louisiana judge has granted LSU a preliminary injunction against the NCAA, clearing the immediate path for the university to sign defensive tackle Zxavian Harris and tight end Dae'Quan Wright. The ruling, issued by Judge William Jorden on Thursday evening, came less than 48 hours before LSU’s season opener against Clemson. Both players had previously signed NFL contracts and participated in preseason games, a status typically barred by a new Southeastern Conference (SEC) rule.

The SEC passed a rule in August banning players who signed contracts with professional teams, including undrafted free agent contracts, from returning to college football. The conference is currently prevented from enforcing this ban due to the local injunction. However, the SEC has a separate federal lawsuit pending that could potentially override the Louisiana ruling. If the federal case succeeds, LSU could face massive penalties, including multi-game suspensions and major fines.

The legal victory has drawn criticism from conference mates and state officials. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr has encouraged the SEC to explore punishments for LSU, potentially up to expulsion from the conference. Attorneys representing the SEC have indicated they are planning to file an appeal against the injunction. The situation mirrors a previous dispute involving Texas Tech and quarterback Brendan Sorsby in the Big 12, where conference pressure ultimately led to the player leaving the roster despite a local court win.

LSU head coach Lane Kiffin remains steadfast in his decision to roster the players, arguing that both are valuable additions to a squad that signed the No. 1 transfer portal class in the nation. The Tigers have invested significantly in their roster, featuring key transfers such as quarterback Sam Leavitt, offensive tackle Jordan Seaton, and safety Ty Benefield. Harris, who previously played for the New Orleans Saints, testified that he was paid only $190 in travel expenses and spent time rehabbing a foot injury. Wright previously played for the Cleveland Browns.

Despite the legal uncertainty, LSU is considered a strong national title contender. The team already possesses significant depth, including tight end Trey'dez Green, who is arguably the best in the country. Linebacker Whit Weeks stated that the legal situation is not a distraction for the team, noting that players are accustomed to uncertainty. However, the risk of administrative chaos increases as the regular season progresses.

Louisiana Senator John Kennedy commented on the dispute, suggesting that the primary concern for constituents is on-field performance rather than procedural details. "My people don't care what Lane Kiffin does," Kennedy said. "We don't care as long as he wins. But he better win."