---
title: "Lanning Criticizes NFL Players Returning to College"
url: https://www.hereaiken.com/2026/08/24/lanning-nfl-players-college-eligibility/
date: 2026-08-24T05:03:08-04:00
modified: 2026-08-24T05:03:08-04:00
author: "Marigold Whitcomb"
categories: ["HERE's the Angle", "Sports"]
site: "HERE Aiken"
attribution: "HERE Aiken"
---

# Lanning Criticizes NFL Players Returning to College

*Source: [HERE Aiken](https://www.hereaiken.com/2026/08/24/lanning-nfl-players-college-eligibility/) — August 24, 2026 by Marigold Whitcomb*

Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning recently voiced strong disapproval regarding a court ruling that allows some NFL players to return to college football. This development, which occurred on August 20, granted a temporary restraining order against the NCAA, providing 16 players from the class of 2022 a fifth year of eligibility.

Lanning highlighted several concerns following Oregon’s practice on Saturday. He stated that once a player enters the NFL, they should remain in the NFL and not have the option to return to college. The coach also pointed out that college teams have roster limits, meaning that inviting a former NFL player back would necessitate removing another player who has dedicated time to the team throughout the spring and summer. He emphasized that this scenario is unfair to the players who have been working to secure their positions.

Among the players benefiting from this ruling are former Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright and former LSU defensive end Jack Pyburn, both currently on NFL training camp rosters. Wright, for instance, played for the Cleveland Browns on Saturday and reportedly entered the transfer portal after the order was signed in Louisiana. The college football season is set to begin on August 29.

The lawsuit in Louisiana took place after the NCAA introduced a five-year, age-based eligibility model. Under this model, athletes are permitted five years to play five seasons, starting either on their 19th birthday or their enrollment date, whichever comes first. Lanning’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among many college football observers regarding the fairness and structure of the sport’s current landscape.