LSU delays adding NFL-linked players as SEC lawsuit proceeds

LSU held off adding two players with NFL ties to its roster ahead of a Friday deadline as the Southeastern Conference pursues legal action over the issue, multiple sources told OutKick.

Judge William Jorden of the 19th District Court of Louisiana granted a preliminary injunction that plaintiffs said allows athletes to be rostered by different schools for the upcoming season, the court order shows. The dispute stems from the NCAA’s new “five-for-five” eligibility rule, which gives athletes five years to play five seasons, according to court filings.

The SEC enacted an exemption in April that it says allows teams to add players who are enrolled full time. But multiple sources told OutKick that LSU did not add former Ole Miss players Dae’Quan Wright or Zxavian Harris to its roster on Friday. Both players told OutKick they expected to be added to LSU’s roster.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey testified that rosters including players with professional ties would violate conference rules and defended the SEC’s decision to sue, saying under oath the conference had established “our First Amendment right for freedom of association,” the hearing transcript shows. The conference has authorized Sankey to seek punishments, including a 50% suspension of a head coach and fines for schools that violate the guidelines, the SEC said.

Multiple sources told OutKick that LSU administrators, Governor Jeff Landry and LSU President Wade Rousse discussed the situation with the school’s legal counsel. Attorney Ryan Downton told OutKick he would seek a contempt order if players were added and later removed. The SEC’s federal lawsuit against LSU, coach Lane Kiffin and other administrators remains pending as courts and the schools weigh next steps.

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