LSU finalizes 105-player roster, excludes former NFL hopefuls Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris
LSU added two newcomers to reach the NCAA limit of 105 players, leaving former NFL preseason participants Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris off the squad for the upcoming season.
Louisiana State University announced Tuesday that defensive end Gabriel Reliford and cornerback Aidan Anding have been added to the football roster, bringing the total to the NCAA-allowed 105 players. The move means that former NFL preseason participants Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris will not be eligible to join the Tigers this season.
Both Wright and Harris had sought to return to college football after failing to make NFL rosters, citing a recent NCAA rule that permits five years of eligibility within a five-year window. Their attempts triggered a series of legal challenges and discussions among SEC officials about potential penalties for LSU.
The SEC had scheduled a meeting to consider whether LSU might lose its conference membership, though it is unclear if that meeting will proceed. LSU head coach Brian Kelly addressed the roster decision on a national broadcast, noting that the uncertainty surrounding possible sanctions influenced the choice.
"As much as I feel for the players, I believe they have an opportunity to play, but I had to make a decision for the big picture of LSU and its football program," Kelly said.
With the roster set, LSU will look ahead to its season opener against Clemson, following a 51-10 victory in the first week of competition.