The college athletics landscape is facing turmoil after the SEC and Big Ten conferences enacted new eligibility guidelines barring athletes who have participated in professional sports from rejoining college teams. This move follows multiple injunctions and temporary restraining orders granted by judges allowing some players to compete this season despite the new restrictions.

On Tuesday, August 26th, 2026, the SEC and Big Ten, soon to be joined by the ACC and Big 12, voted unanimously to implement these new rules. The decision comes amid ongoing lawsuits challenging the NCAA’s eligibility guidelines, which currently allow athletes five years to play five seasons of college sports.

Despite the NCAA winning a stay from the Tenth Circuit Court, it continues to face numerous eligibility lawsuits from athletes classified in the 2022 class. SEC commissioner Greg Sankey and Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti have been at the forefront of these developments, with Petitti previously speaking at Big Ten football media day in Indianapolis.

Attorney Ryan Downton, representing several players, told OutKick-Fox News on Tuesday night that they are "working on a legal strategy" to challenge both the NCAA and the conferences enforcing the new guidelines. Downton also emphasized that the SEC should comply with a recent Louisiana court order allowing certain players to participate, noting that a player should be rostered by LSU and could be a significant contributor.

Meanwhile, Ole Miss has filed lawsuits against college football players who transferred to Lane Kiffin's LSU, highlighting the contentious nature of the eligibility disputes. Multiple sources confirmed to OutKick that the SEC vote was unanimous, but legal actions are expected to continue in the coming days.

The situation remains fluid as courts, conferences, and athletes navigate the complex intersection of professional experience and college eligibility rules.

Sources