On Sunday, the college football world officially entered uncharted territory when the Cleveland Browns waived Dae’Quan Wright. If Wright goes unclaimed, he will be free to sign with a college football team, most likely the LSU Tigers.
Wright went through the NFL Draft process, went undrafted, and was actively participating in the preseason before entering the transfer portal. According to CBS Sports, he won’t be the only player to do so. This could be possible because of a minor detail in the judge’s ruling.
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“Despite [Judge] Sweeney clarifying on Aug. 2 that NCAA rules would still apply regarding players who’ve signed NFL contracts and are ineligible to return to college, teams have remained in contact with different players about a potential return to school, sources told CBS Sports,” Brad Crawford of CBS Sports reported.
Dec 20, 2025; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Dae’Quan Wright (8) runs after a catch during the third quarter against the Tulane Green Wave at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
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“This Louisiana TRO has created a time-sensitive window for players who are in NFL training camps or on the cut bubble. NFL teams will trim their final rosters to 53 players on Aug. 30, which could create opportunities for released players to play college football during the 2026 season on a NIL or revenue share contract.”
It sounds like a stretch, but it is the reason Wright can return to college football. If a player gets released, they are no longer bound to an NFL contract. That means players who fit the criteria outlined in the temporary restraining order and get released can enter the transfer portal.
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Head coaches like Dan Lanning believe that once a player signs an NFL contract, or even declares for the NFL Draft, their college career is over. Instead, players and coaches can now potentially exploit this loophole. It sounds unusual, but this is the reality of modern college sports.
Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; A NCAA logo flag at the Hall of Champions at the NCAA National Office. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
What is stopping a Day 3 pick from getting cut, declining to join a practice squad. Then returning to college football? As long as the player remains eligible, this ruling could allow them to do exactly that.
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Chances are, more NFL rookies will consider making the move. There are bound to be some fourth- or fifth-year players who at least strongly consider returning to college.
For now, fans are left asking: What is next for college football?
