SEC reportedly to suspend coaches who bring players back from pros

Field Level Media|published: Wed 26th August, 23:22 2026

Jul 20, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey speaks to the press during SEC Football Kickoff Media Day at the Tampa Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

In the latest twist in NCAA conferences' attempts to prevent professional athletes from returning to college to compete in athletics, the Southeastern Conference on Wednesday reportedly agreed to punish schools that bring in players from the NFL, NBA or WNBA.

According to multiple media reports, the SEC's penalties will include suspending coaches for half a season, a fine equal to 50% of the university's annual budget for the sport in question, and revoking league voting rights.

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey reportedly was granted authority to levy additional sanctions as needed.

The policy banning pro athletes from returning to the SEC was approved with a unanimous 16-0 vote, while the penalties reportedly were approved 15-0 with LSU abstaining.

LSU's stance is noteworthy as the latest round of furor over the return of pro prospects was sparked in part by Tigers coach Lane Kiffin's bringing in Dae'Quan Wright after the former Ole Miss tight end was cut by the Cleveland Browns in camp. A judge granted Wright a temporary restraining order to compete in his fifth year of eligibility.

Earlier this year, LSU received a commitment from former St. John's basketball star RJ Luis Jr. to play next season even though he signed contracts with the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics after going undrafted in 2025. On Monday, Luis received a temporary injunction that would permit him to suit up for the Tigers this winter.

The SEC, though, stated it will not permit an athlete to be on a school's roster if he or she meets one of the following conditions:

--Previously declared for the NFL, NBA or WNBA draft and did not appropriately withdraw.

--Signed a contract with an NFL (or other professional football league), NBA/G League or WNBA (or affiliate) team.

--Been listed on an NFL (or other professional football league), NBA/G League or WNBA (or affiliate) roster.

The Big Ten joined the SEC in banning players who signed with an NFL team, or declared for the NFL draft and didn't withdraw, from returning to play for a school in the conference. The Big 12 announced Wednesday a similar ban for players in all sports. ESPN reported the Atlantic Coast Conference could soon join the other power conferences with a similar announcement.

--Field Level Media