SEC sues LSU and Lane Kiffin over recruiting former NFL players to roster

The SEC filed federal suit in the Northern District of Alabama against LSU, LSU president Wade Rousse, athletic director Verge Ausberry, and coach Lane Kiffin, alleging a deliberate campaign to recruit former professional players for LSU’s 2026 season and seeking preliminary and permanent injunctions to block such recruitment. The filing argues the move violates the conference’s First Amendment rights and its mission by forcing the league to associate with conduct inconsistent with its purpose. LSU and Kiffin recently recruited former NFL players Zxavian Harris and Dae’Quan Wright following a state-court ruling and new NCAA eligibility rules that allow a later return for players who previously exhausted eligibility. The SEC’s action comes as Baton Rouge courts weigh temporary restraints on players’ participation amid ongoing Louisiana hearings over eligibility and the NCAA’s five-for-five rule. The case unfolds as LSU prepares for a season-opening game against Clemson, underscoring the high-stakes dispute. Other reports corroborate the SEC’s claims and the defendants’ positions as the case develops.