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A groundbreaking scenario is unfolding in college football as LSU tight end Dae’Quan Wright prepares for an unprecedented return to the collegiate ranks. Following a recent NCAA eligibility ruling, Wright has already agreed to join the Tigers for the 2026 season, contingent upon clearing waivers with the Cleveland Browns. If completed, this move would mark the first time a player has signed an NFL contract as an undrafted free agent and subsequently returned to play college football.
Wright’s path to this historic moment began when he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent before being claimed on waivers by the Browns on August 11. However, he saw minimal action during the preseason, appearing in only one game against Buffalo while sidelined by injury. After entering the transfer portal on Wednesday following a Louisiana court ruling that granted temporary eligibility to a group of athletes, Wright is now positioned to rejoin LSU and head coach Lane Kiffin, under whom he previously starred at Ole Miss with 39 receptions for 635 yards and five touchdowns last season.
Browns head coach Todd Monken expressed bewilderment over the unusual situation, noting that Kiffin had contacted him a week prior about Wright’s potential return without explanation. Kiffin has since defended the move, arguing that athletes should not suffer consequences for NCAA rulings beyond their control and emphasizing that players deserved clarity about their eligibility before making professional commitments.
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