Judge Allows Former NFL Players to Return to College Football

Former NFL player Dae’Quan Wright has gained the right to return to college athletics at LSU, following a court ruling. Fox News contributor Jim Gray discussed the lawsuit filed by the SEC aimed at blocking this transition and highlighted the evolving NCAA eligibility rules impacting the 2022 draft class.

Jayden Daniels, who played two remarkable seasons as quarterback for the LSU Tigers, won several awards, including the Heisman Trophy in 2023. Although expected to be an LSU legend, Daniels faced mixed reactions from Tigers fans during a recent game against Clemson. During a break at Tiger Stadium, a video showcasing former LSU players in the NFL was displayed. Fans cheered for all except Daniels, who received boos when his name was shown alongside teammate K’Lavon Chaisson.

The negative reception stemmed from a legal dispute earlier this year. Daniels and his attorney, Adam Kenner, sent a cease-and-desist letter to LSU, demanding the university stop using Daniels’ name, image, and likeness. Kenner’s letter to LSU’s athletic director, Verge Ausberry, warned of legal action if the university continued exploiting Daniels’ NIL.

Meanwhile, sophomore cornerback DJ Pickett is now wearing the No. 5 jersey Daniels previously wore at LSU. Pickett stated he had worn No. 5 throughout his career and received assurances during recruitment. Brian Kelly, who recruited Pickett and coached Daniels, was fired from his role as the head coach, with Lane Kiffin replacing him in 2026. Kiffin was coaching Ole Miss when Daniels played for LSU.

Daniels expected LSU to consult him before assigning his jersey number to another player. In contrast, Joe Burrow’s No. 9 has remained undisturbed at LSU post his NFL move, following his successful tenure as the Tigers’ quarterback.