The Southeastern Conference filed a lawsuit Thursday against Louisiana State University and head football coach Lane Kiffin, alleging the program violated conference rules by recruiting and planning to roster former NFL players. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Alabama, names LSU, university president Wade Rousse, athletic director Verge Ausberry, and Kiffin as defendants.
The SEC’s complaint argues that LSU’s actions violate the conference’s First Amendment right of expressive association, asserting that the conference should not be forced to "associate with conduct contrary to its purpose and mission." The filing seeks a judge’s order to block LSU from signing or playing former professional athletes, including players who had signed contracts with the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. At least two former NFL players have reportedly been practicing with LSU, according to the lawsuit.
The legal action coincides with a separate court hearing in Baton Rouge, where a Louisiana judge is considering a temporary restraining order that would prevent the NCAA from declaring certain athletes ineligible. The hearing involves dozens of athletes seeking a fifth college season after leaving NFL training camps. A judge had already issued a temporary restraining order keeping the NCAA from ruling some players ineligible, though the NCAA and Power Four conferences adopted formal rules last week to penalize member schools that roster former professionals.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey testified in the Baton Rouge hearing on Thursday, defending the conference’s enforcement of its rules. Sankey stated, "The NFL is not a recruiting ground for college football. It never has been," emphasizing the SEC’s commitment to upholding its principles. He added, "I think it's important to stand up for principles. Even if people disagree."
LSU and Kiffin have not publicly commented on the lawsuit. Kiffin previously stated his intent to play former NFL players if courts allow it, arguing that his decisions are made to benefit the football program. "Even if it's a couple of players that maybe don't even start, if it makes your team better, and it's legal to do, and the players want it, I'll take the hit publicly for it," Kiffin said. "That's my job."
The SEC’s lawsuit alleges that LSU engaged in a "deliberate and coordinated campaign" to recruit professional athletes for the 2026-27 season, directly defying conference rules. The conference claims LSU’s actions are "detrimental to the Conference and contrary to its core purpose," and seeks to curb further harm. The lawsuit was filed as athletes pursue legal avenues to play this fall, with the SEC submitting a brief in the case on Wednesday.
The legal battles highlight a growing divide over whether former professional athletes should be allowed to return to college sports, with the SEC taking a firm stance against the practice while programs like LSU explore the possibility.