The NFL has reminded its clubs that players who return to college football after signing an NFL contract cannot subsequently sign with an NFL team during the 2026 season. The clarification matters amid growing legal and eligibility disputes over former professional players seeking to resume college athletics, including players linked with LSU.

The memo says a released player remains an NFL free agent and may join another NFL club or the CFL, but becomes unavailable for the season if they return to college; they also cannot re-enter a future NFL Draft. Former Cleveland Browns tight end Dae’Quan Wright and ex-New Orleans Saints player Zxavian Harris have temporary court orders allowing a further year of college eligibility, but new SEC and Big Ten rules would bar athletes who signed professionally, declared for the draft or attended professional training camps; their lawyer says legal action is being considered.