The Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten Conference have both moved to prohibit former professional athletes from returning to play college sports, a development that could impact collegiate athletics across the nation, including for teams with local ties like the Pacers. On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, the Big Ten became the first to implement a ban, which was unanimously approved by its athletic directors and faculty athletics representatives. This policy specifically targets former NFL players seeking a fifth year of eligibility within the league.
Later the same day, the SEC announced its own policy after a meeting at its Birmingham, Alabama headquarters. This ban extends to players from the NFL, NBA, or WNBA, whereas the Big Ten’s rule currently focuses solely on NFL players. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey has been granted broad authority to determine penalties for violations of this new policy. Both conferences’ decisions were unanimous among their member institutions.
The Big Ten’s disciplinary measures are reportedly modeled on the NCAA’s ghost transfer rule, which can result in coaches being banned from 50% of games and schools facing financial penalties equivalent to 20% of their football budget. The Big Ten’s ban applies to players who have signed a professional contract, were on a professional roster, or declared for the NFL Draft without withdrawing. The Big 12 Conference is also considering a similar ban, and the ACC is scheduled to discuss the matter.
These actions by the major conferences come amid increasing legal uncertainties and a recent trend of players who signed NFL contracts attempting to return to college, sometimes through the transfer portal. This push has been influenced by recent court rulings that have allowed some players seeking a fifth year of eligibility to return to college football. The SEC also released a statement urging Congress to pass the Protect College Sports Act in September, aiming to provide further protection against such developments.
