Several NFL players now have the chance to return to college football ahead of the upcoming season. Many people observe that this situation is just another point highlighting the flaws in today’s college football landscape.
Recently, a group of 16 players from the 2022 class received a temporary restraining order against the NCAA, allowing them a fifth year of eligibility. Among those players are former Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright and former LSU defensive end Jack Pyburn, both of whom are currently in NFL training camps.
Even though Wright and Pyburn have been active in NFL preseason games, and the college football season is set to begin on August 29, the ruling in Louisiana permits players to enter the transfer portal. In fact, Wright has reportedly taken advantage of this and entered the portal. He was also seen playing for the Cleveland Browns on Saturday.
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There’s a common thought that these players, who are trying to secure a spot on an NFL roster, might return to college football in hopes of striking it rich.
Oregon’s head coach Dan Lanning has expressed strong disapproval of this new development, stating the various concerns he has.
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“I think there’s a lot of negatives involved here,” Lanning told reporters after practice on Saturday. “First off, once you enter the NFL, to me, you’re in the NFL. It shouldn’t be possible to come back. Additionally, our rosters are built with limited spots. Inviting someone back means cutting another player who has worked hard all summer and spring to earn their place on the team. That just doesn’t seem fair.”
While Lanning’s views may echo the sentiments of many college football fans and analysts, the fact that a head coach from a prominent program voices these concerns adds significant credibility.
The litigation in Louisiana, which led to this new eligibility ruling for the 16 players, emerged after the NCAA introduced a five-year eligibility model based on age. This model allows athletes five years to play five seasons, starting from their 19th birthday or their enrollment date, whichever occurs first.
