LSU football completes roster without ex-NFL players amid SEC dispute

LSU announced that it has filled its 105-player football roster by adding defensive end Gabriel Reliford and cornerback Aidan Anding, both of whom were on the team last season. The university will not include tight end Dae’Quan Wright or defensive end Zxavian Harris, who had signed NFL contracts as undrafted free agents, for the upcoming season.

The decision follows a Louisiana state court ruling that cleared roughly 40 former college athletes, including Wright and Harris, to return to school with immediate eligibility. LSU had previously enrolled the two players, but chose not to activate them for the September 2 game against Clemson, leaving two roster spots open.

The move comes as the SEC filed an amended complaint indicating that conference leaders will meet on September 10 to consider whether to terminate LSU’s membership. The complaint argues that LSU’s continued presence would conflict with the conference’s stated values, regardless of whether the contested players are added to the roster.

Attorney Ryan Downton, who represents Wright and Harris, said the athletes are reviewing their legal options. The SEC’s filing also noted concerns that LSU’s head coach, Lane Kiffin, had coordinated with counsel for the athletes, with involvement from state officials.

The NCAA recently simplified eligibility rules, granting athletes five years to play five seasons, but the change did not affect fourth-year seniors who had completed their eligibility, prompting a series of lawsuits, including the Louisiana case.

The SEC and other leagues have reaffirmed adherence to an NCAA rule barring athletes who have signed professional contracts from returning to college football. LSU abstained from a vote on additional penalties such as fines or loss of voting privileges for the school.