All the logos of the big tens schools on a map with the Big Ten logo in the background.
Courtesy of Big Ten
The Big Ten is set to pass a rule that will preclude players from returning from the NFL to play college football, first reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
The rule has come as a result of two players, Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, returning to LSU after participating in NFL training camps. While the legality across the NCAA is still up in the air, the new 5-for-5 ruling has provided an avenue for players to legally return to college after signing professional contracts.
The move from the Tigers has drawn criticism from coaches and media across the country, yet the Big Ten is the first conference to draft legislation to prevent professional-to-collegiate roster moves. The ACC, Big 12 and SEC have also reportedly been exploring similar policies.
Additionally, while Michigan football coach Kyle Whittingham hasn’t addressed the 5-for-5 ruling directly, he has been an advocate for more robust intervention in order to stabilize the landscape of college football. Perhaps surprisingly, LSU coach Lane Kiffin and Whittingham agree on some elements of college football litigation.
“With Lane Kiffin, I think that’s a good concept, we have to have a salary cap,” Whittingham said at Big Ten Media Days. “I believe an NFL minor-league model for college football is in its best interest.”
With the new rule, the Wolverines won’t be able to add any former players who have moved on to the professional level. But as the rest of college football has yet to act, Michigan could potentially find itself facing off against professional-level players on Saturdays.