LSU remains under the microscope as the college football season kicks off, specifically regarding the status of former NFL players Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris. The Tigers made a big decision on the two ahead of Saturday's season opener against Clemson.
Wright and Harris did not make LSU's roster, USA TODAY confirmed, despite being granted a preliminary injunction by a Louisiana judge on Thursday. LSU is likely hoping to avoid the harsh punishment the SEC threatened if they were to indeed roster Wright and Harris, which would've been a half-season suspension for coach Lane Kiffin, a 50% cut to the team's annual operating budget and the revoking of some SEC voting privileges.
Let's get into what we know about the situation.
Who are Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris?
Wright is a 22-year-old
tight end who played the last two seasons for Kiffin at Ole Miss. He spent the 2026 NFL training camp and preseason with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns, and after failing to make a roster spot in late August, he reunited with Kiffin at LSU. Harris is a 22-year-old defensive tackle who spent the last four years with the Rebels. He signed with the Saints as an undrafted free agent in May, and after beginning the season on the non-football injury list while recovering from foot surgery, New Orleans cut him in early August without ever taking a snap.
Will Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris play vs. Clemson?
No, they will not.
Will Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris play for LSU later this season?
It's possible. LSU reportedly filled only 103 of its 105 roster spots, which seems to be opening the door for Wright and Harris to join the squad at some point this season. It appears Kiffin and the SEC are playing a game of chicken, and at least right now, the SEC is winning.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Will LSU's former NFL players play vs. Clemson?
