The attorneys representing ex-NFL commits Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavien Harris plan to fight the SEC’s new rule banning schools from signing former pro players. The SEC approved the ban after a Baton Rouge judge granted 33 athletes a temporary restraining order against the NCAA to return for a fifth season. Attorney Tony Clayton says that ruling also prohibits the SEC from punishing schools and players.
“By operational law, or derivatives of the NCAA, they are the NCAA. So if the NCAA is prohibited from taking any punitive actions against these young players, then the SEC rules are too,” Clayton explained.
Clayton says the SEC cannot retroactively create a rule to circumvent the ruling of a state court. He says the players who signed pro contracts had no other choice at the time and are now being barred from the same fifth year the NCAA has given to every athlete moving forward.
“You can’t deprive these young athletes who would’ve stayed in college, but for you not having this rule in effect. It’s now in effect; they have a right to take advantage of it,” Clayton noted.
The temporary restraining order allowing players to enter the transfer portal and participate in team activities expires tomorrow, and a hearing in the case is scheduled for Monday. Clayton says he expects the plaintiffs to be successful in receiving an injunction.
“I think we have a strong case to put forth as to why these young folks ought to have their opportunity to enhance their education and better themselves and play ball on a collegiate level,” Clayton said.