SEC and Big Ten vote to restrict athletes with pro experience despite court orders
The SEC and Big Ten have enacted new eligibility rules barring athletes who have signed professional contracts or declared for drafts from competing. This move comes despite court injunctions allowing such athletes to play. Attorney Ryan Downton criticized the conferences for 'cartel-like conduct' and warned of contempt of court.
The new conference policies specifically target athletes who signed professional contracts, declared for NFL, NBA, or WNBA drafts without proper withdrawal, or appeared on professional rosters. SEC presidents voted unanimously Tuesday, granting commissioner Greg Sankey authority to suspend coaches and fine schools that violate the rules. The Big Ten enacted similar measures, with ACC and Big 12 expected to follow.
These actions respond to multiple court injunctions and temporary restraining orders issued in lawsuits challenging the NCAA's five-year eligibility window. Attorney Ryan Downton, representing affected players, said legal strategies are being developed against both the NCAA and conferences. He argued the new rules effectively place the NCAA in contempt of existing court orders.
This dispute could reshape the balance of power in college athletics, pitting conference authority against judicial oversight. Players who successfully obtained court orders may find their victories hollow if conferences refuse to comply, potentially triggering contempt proceedings and further litigation. Schools face difficult choices between conference penalties and legal exposure. The