Two Veterans, One Big Question
LSU is adding former NFL talent just days before the season kicks off. The Tigers have secured former Ole Miss defensive lineman Zxavian Harris and tight end Dae’Quan Wright. Both players spent time in the pros this summer but were released. Now they are back in college uniforms. Harris played for the New Orleans Saints before getting cut. Wright bounced between the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns, according to Yahoo Sports. They aren’t just practice squad filler either. A Louisiana court granted them extra eligibility to play again.
This move changes how Clemson must prepare for Week 1. The Tigers could have these two on the field when the game starts. It’s a risky gamble for Lane Kiffin. He knows SEC rules usually block transfers between conference schools. But he decided to recruit these guys anyway. Kiffin told reporters on Monday that other schools are doing the same thing. He stated that due to these rulings, they will either play for you or play elsewhere in the country by the end of the day. Like probably most people are, we made a decision to recruit them.
A Rocky Road Back to Baton Rouge
Harris has a personal history with Kiffin that makes this signing even juicier. The 6-foot-8, 335-pound lineman played 15 games for Ole Miss last year. He recorded 58 tackles and three sacks. But he wasn’t a fan of Kiffin leaving the Rebels for LSU during the playoffs. Harris called the move a “slap in the face.” He was loud about his anger at the time. “We got something for him,” Harris said. “He was just trying to steal our shine. That’s all he tried to do. That’s all he’s been trying to do.”
Now that same player is wearing purple and gold. The irony is thick enough to cut with a knife. Harris spent the summer training with the Saints before being released. He is one of 16 players granted another season by the court. His return gives LSU a massive body to block for the offense. Wright adds another layer of experience. He spent time with two NFL teams this offseason. Both players bring skills that younger guys simply don’t have yet.
Why Experience Matters More Than You Think
Most fans think new players need time to learn the playbook. These guys already know how to play at a high level. They have faced NFL speed and size. That is a huge advantage over standard college freshmen. Kiffin is betting that these veterans can step in immediately. The stats back up Harris’s readiness. He started every single game last season for Ole Miss. He also blocked a kick and threw an interception. That is rare production for a defensive lineman.
There is a catch, though. SEC rules might stop them from playing right now. Commissioner Greg Sankey reminded programs about the transfer window. There is no guarantee either player will clear the rules in time. If they get blocked, LSU loses a major boost. If they play, Clemson faces a much harder test. The Tigers have to prepare for the worst-case scenario. They can’t assume these guys will be on the sideline. The uncertainty keeps Dabo Swinney up at night.
The Clock Is Ticking for Clemson
The season opener against Clemson is set for next week. That is less than two weeks away from now. Every day counts for the coaching staff. They need to know if Harris and Wright are eligible. The news broke recently, so there is little time to adjust. If the court ruling holds up, LSU has a surprise ready. If the SEC blocks them, the roster stays the same. Either way, the drama is already here.
For the fans, this is a thrilling start to the year.
