NFL Players Not Allowed to Return or Be Redrafted After College Re-entry

Recent developments have raised questions about NFL players who could potentially return to college football after receiving an extra year of eligibility. The NFL issued a memorandum to clarify the rules regarding this situation. It stated that players who leave NFL camps to return to college cannot rejoin the NFL in the current season and are not eligible for future drafts.

On ESPN’s “Get Up,” Adam Schefter, an insider for NFL coverage, discussed the significance of these reminders. He emphasized that the reinforcement was necessary due to unusual interactions between collegiate and professional football. Schefter explained that although these rules have existed, the NFL wants to ensure teams understand that transferring from the NFL back to college is a one-way move with specific consequences. Such players cannot reenter the draft after leaving.

Using an example, Schefter mentioned Donte Whitner. As a former high pick, Whitner cannot simply return to college and become a high draft pick again. The NFL’s memo makes this clear, addressing cases like that of Dae’Quan Wright.

Dae’Quan Wright, previously at training camp with the Cleveland Browns, has chosen to go back to college under coach Lane Kiffin at LSU. His decision exemplifies the memo’s relevance, along with Zxavian Harris leaving the Saints for LSU, also coached by Kiffin.

Schefter reiterated that once players leave mid-season for college, they are barred from rejoining the NFL that year. Although the rules are explicit, the impact these decisions will have on the players’ careers remains uncertain. Schefter stated that Wright’s situation is being watched closely, and the long-term effects on his future in football are still undetermined.