NFL Bars Clubs From Signing Players Who Return to College in 2026 Season
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 27
NFL Bars Clubs From Signing Players Who Return to College in 2026 Season
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 27
Summary
An NFL memo sent Wednesday told clubs that any player who returns to college after signing an NFL contract cannot sign with an NFL team during the 2026 season.
The league said those players remain free agents after being cut and may join another NFL team or the CFL, but returning to college also blocks them from re-entering a future NFL Draft.
Dae’Quan Wright, released by the Browns, and Zxavian Harris, cut by the Saints, are among the players pursuing a return to LSU under Lane Kiffin after winning a temporary restraining order.
That pushback widened when the SEC and Big Ten adopted eligibility rules barring athletes who signed with pro teams, declared for the NFL Draft or attended pro training camps from conference competition.
Attorney Ryan Downton said players are preparing legal action against the NCAA and conferences, arguing the new rules defy court orders and amount to cartel-like conduct.