Power Four Conferences Move to Privatize Eligibility Rules

The Power Four conferences are rapidly establishing a self-governance model to police eligibility as schools attempt to add former professional athletes to their rosters for the 2025–26 season, as Sports Illustrated first reported. According to the outlet, this movement was triggered by efforts at LSU to enroll multiple pro football players and pro basketball transfer RJ Luis Jr., maneuvers supported by a temporary restraining order from a Louisiana state judge.

In response, the Big Ten unanimously approved a rule banning football underclassmen who have been on a pro roster, signed a pro contract, or entered the NFL draft process. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) adopted similar rules, expanding the ban to include NBA and WNBA players. Sports Illustrated reports the SEC vote was 16–0, notably including a vote in favor from LSU President Wade Rousse.

To enforce these mandates, the conferences have established severe penalties. The Big Ten has set a 20% operating budget fine and a half-season suspension for head coaches. The SEC has implemented a half-season coach suspension, a fine totaling half of the sport's operating budget, and the loss of league voting privileges, with Commissioner Greg Sankey granted the authority to impose further sanctions.

While the Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conference are pursuing similar legislation, the shift represents a move toward conference-led policing amid diminished NCAA authority. A power-conference administrator told Sports Illustrated that while conferences must conduct their own risk analysis, the move is expected to trigger numerous lawsuits.