Clemson Warns LSU of Possible Contract Breach Over Eligibility of Former Professionals
Clemson's legal team told LSU that fielding former professional athletes could violate the game contract, while the SEC pursues legal action to enforce its ban on such players.
Clemson University sent an email to LSU’s general counsel on Friday stating that the Tigers’ participation of former professional football players in Saturday’s season-opening game could breach the contract governing the matchup. The email, signed by Clemson general counsel Chip Hood, said the school plans to travel to Baton Rouge but highlighted "certain eligibility" issues that may constitute a contractual violation, noting that ongoing disputes do not relieve either party of their obligations.
Clemson clarified that it is not seeking monetary damages or filing a lawsuit, but it "supports the position of the NCAA and our conferences regarding the eligibility of professional athletes returning to play college sports," according to the correspondence. The university’s legal team has spent several days reviewing the contract, which contains a clause prohibiting ineligible players.
The issue stems from a Louisiana judge’s preliminary injunction granting a group of athletes a fifth season of eligibility, despite having signed professional contracts. LSU has not formally added the players to its roster, but the court order allows them to return to college football.
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, speaking to reporters, said the matter concerns fairness and warned that if LSU were to change the rules through the courts, it could lead to “total chaos and anarchy” in the SEC. Wilson declined to comment on Clemson’s contract review, noting that the conference’s bylaws, approved by all 16 member university presidents, should govern eligibility.
The SEC has filed a federal lawsuit seeking injunctive relief to enforce its ban on former professionals, alleging that LSU and coach Lane Kiffin orchestrated a campaign to recruit such athletes. The league’s commissioners and presidents have discussed possible sanctions, including boycott, probation, suspension, or expulsion, should LSU add the players.
LSU’s president, Wade Rousse, reaffirmed the conference’s prohibition on professional athletes at a recent meeting in Birmingham. The Tigers are required to submit a 105-man roster to the College Sports Commission before the opener, though SEC bylaws allow roster changes during the season if spots remain open.
A Louisiana judge also enjoined LSU, the NCAA, and the SEC from actions that would negatively affect the athletes, and the players’ attorney indicated he would seek a contempt finding if LSU refused to roster his clients. The legal dispute underscores the SEC’s effort to assert league-only governance over eligibility rules.
The game is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. on ABC, with SEC commissioner Barry Sankey testifying in the related court case but not expected to attend the matchup.