Judge makes pivotal ruling in favor of former NFL players attempting to return to college football
· Yahoo Sports
The college football season got well underway Thursday night. However, the sports world was also watching closely as the SEC filed a lawsuit against LSU and head coach Lane Kiffin. The move came ahead of a critical hearing to determine whether a temporary restraining order (TRO) would remain in effect before the scheduled trial date.
A crucial decision could determine the fate of dozens of athletes looking to return to college sports. That group includes two former NFL players who are seeking to join LSU after a TRO allowed them to leave professional football and enter the transfer portal.
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A decision has now been made.
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Pete Thamel of ESPN reports that a federal judge has granted an injunction paving the way for the athletes to return to college football. The ruling will also likely prevent the SEC from imposing sanctions against LSU for adding former professional players to its roster.
Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Dae’Quan Wright (8) scores a touchdown against the Miami Hurricanes during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)“Injunction granted by Judge William Jorden, paving the way for NCAA and SEC eligibility for more than 40 atheltes. That group includes potential LSU transfers Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, setting up a seismic decision for LSU whether they put them on the roster, which is due tomorrow.” Thamel reported on X.
What happens next?
The SEC still has an active lawsuit against LSU and Kiffin, but Thursday’s ruling could significantly weaken the conference’s position. The injunction creates a major obstacle for the SEC if it attempts to punish LSU or other programs for following the court’s order.
The conference has remained adamant about enforcing its rules and potentially sanctioning teams that bring former professional athletes back into college football. However, taking action against LSU could now create another legal battle if those sanctions conflict with the federal court’s injunction.
MORE: SEC officially files lawsuit against LSU, Lane Kiffin in federal court
The situation also mirrors the recent chaos surrounding Texas Tech and former quarterback Brendan Sorsby. The Big 12 came close to sanctioning the Red Raiders before the legal situation surrounding player eligibility continued to evolve.
Jul 20, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey speaks to the press during SEC Football Kickoff Media Day at the Tampa Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Now, the SEC faces a similar decision. The conference has shown no indication that it intends to back down from its position, but this latest ruling could force it to reconsider how aggressively it pursues sanctions.
For LSU, the immediate priority is getting its roster finalized. With the deadline approaching, the Tigers now have a path to add Wright, Harris and potentially other athletes affected by the ruling.
The broader implications could be even more significant. If the injunction remains in place, it could further reshape how college football handles athletes with professional experience and create another major challenge for the NCAA and its conferences.
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