As LSU prepares for its highly anticipated season opener against Clemson, questions loom regarding the participation of former NFL players on the roster. Head coach Lane Kiffin has been at the center of this controversy, particularly concerning tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive tackle Zxavian Harris, both of whom have had brief stints in the NFL but were released during the preseason.
The situation has been complicated by Kiffin's ongoing battle with the NCAA and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) regarding the eligibility of these players. Despite having trained with NFL teams, Kiffin has sought to secure another year of college eligibility for Wright and Harris. However, the SEC has filed a lawsuit against LSU, which has further complicated matters.
Recent reports indicate that while Kiffin has the legal clearance to include Wright and Harris in the game against Clemson, they have been omitted from the official roster for this matchup. ESPN's Pete Thamel noted that both players were not listed ahead of the game, raising questions about their future with the team.
During an appearance on ESPN’s “College GameDay,” Kiffin expressed his decision not to play the former NFL players in this crucial game. He cited concerns about potential penalties that might arise from including players who have previously participated in the NFL. Kiffin stated, “I’m the head coach of LSU, and I had to make a decision that is for the big picture of LSU and the LSU football program, with the uncertainties of what potentially could have come by adding them to the roster.”
This decision, while perhaps prudent, has drawn criticism for the timing and the drama it has created. Kiffin could have alleviated the situation by making a decision earlier regarding the inclusion of Wright and Harris. The potential benefits of having these experienced players on the field may not have outweighed the risks involved.
Wright, who initially signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent, was released in August before briefly joining the Cleveland Browns, where he also faced a quick exit. Meanwhile, Harris had a similar trajectory after signing with the New Orleans Saints but was released shortly thereafter. Both players had previously played under Kiffin at Ole Miss, adding another layer of connection to their current situation.
LSU's argument for allowing former NFL players to return to college football hinges on recent NCAA changes that grant all players five years of eligibility. This rule was announced in June, following the NFL draft, and has led to discussions among former college athletes regarding their decisions to turn pro prematurely. Kiffin and LSU are advocating for the inclusion of players like Wright and Harris, who have not participated in a regular-season NFL game, thus arguing they should still be eligible to play college football.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Wright and Harris will eventually join the LSU roster. For now, LSU has 103 players listed, leaving room for potential additions later in the season as both players are still enrolled in school. The uncertainty surrounding their status adds to the intrigue of LSU's football season as they face off against a formidable opponent in Clemson.
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