The Tigers' decision regarding the two former NFL players appears to sidestep an immediate confrontation over SEC eligibility rules.
The biggest college football storyline of the offseason has reached a pivotal, albeit temporary, conclusion as the season’s opening Saturday rapidly approaches. LSU released its official roster for the highly anticipated season opener against Clemson, notably omitting former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris.
This strategic move by LSU seems designed to avoid an immediate clash with the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The conference had previously enacted a rule specifically barring former professional athletes from its rosters, a rule temporarily paused by a Louisiana court ruling, according to reporting by NFL.
The exclusion of Wright and Harris from the initial roster comes despite a preliminary injunction granted just Thursday night in Baton Rouge. This ruling allowed both players to pursue a fifth year of eligibility against the NCAA and SEC, raising hopes they would be on the field.
The Eligibility Battle and SEC Stance
The legal saga surrounding Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris has captivated the college football world. Both players were given a preliminary injunction that allows them to argue for their continued eligibility. After the court’s decision, Wright publicly stated his intention to play against Clemson, confirming he had practiced with LSU for the preceding two days.
However, LSU’s Friday statement confirmed their caution, indicating they were reviewing the court’s order. The university pledged to “continue to work constructively with the SEC and NCAA as this matter moves forward,” signaling a desire to navigate the complex eligibility landscape carefully rather than force an immediate issue.
Adding to the institutional pressure, the College Football Playoff (CFP) also voiced support for the existing regulations that prevent former professional athletes from participating in the college game. This broad support for the rule highlights the significant implications of the ongoing legal challenges across the sport.
Clemson’s Concerns and Coach Swinney’s Remarks
The controversy surrounding player eligibility created tension leading up to the LSU vs. Clemson showdown. Just hours before LSU’s roster decision, Clemson general counsel Chip Hood sent a pointed letter to his LSU counterpart. Hood suggested that the unresolved eligibility issue for Wright and Harris could potentially violate the contractual agreement between the two universities for Saturday's game.
Despite these concerns, Clemson remains committed to playing the game. Head coach Dabo Swinney, however, did not hold back his frustrations earlier in the week regarding the broader situation. “I would just say it’s kind of embarrassing,” Swinney remarked. “I mean, honestly, it’s just embarrassing that that’s where we are with college football.” He clarified that he didn't blame the players but rather the system itself.
Player Backgrounds and Potential Return to LSU
Both Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris have notable collegiate careers, playing under current LSU head coach Lane Kiffin during his tenure at Ole Miss. Wright, a tight end, recorded an impressive 39 catches for 635 yards last season for the Rebels. He later spent time with the Cleveland Browns organization during NFL training camp this summer before his return to college.
Harris, a formidable 6-foot-8, 330-pound defensive tackle, contributed significantly with 58 tackles and three sacks last season under Kiffin. After his time at Ole Miss, he signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent, though he was waived last month. Both athletes are currently enrolled at LSU, and the Tigers' submitted roster of 103 players still leaves two open spots, indicating a potential pathway for their addition later in the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris left off the LSU roster for the Clemson game?
LSU omitted Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris from its initial roster to avoid an immediate conflict with an SEC rule that bars former professional players, despite a preliminary injunction allowing them to pursue eligibility.
What is the SEC rule regarding former professional players in college football?
The SEC passed a rule that prohibits former professional players from being on college football rosters, though a Louisiana court recently issued a preliminary injunction pausing its enforcement for Wright and Harris.
Can Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris still play for LSU this season?
Yes, both Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris remain enrolled at LSU and could potentially be added to the roster later in the season, as two spots are still open on the Tigers' current 103-player roster.
What was Clemson's reaction to the eligibility dispute involving LSU players?
Clemson's general counsel, Chip Hood, expressed concern that the eligibility issue could violate the game contract between the two schools, while coach Dabo Swinney called the broader situation surrounding college football eligibility "embarrassing."