Ex-Ole Miss TE Dae’Quan Wright Becomes First NFL Player to Enter Transfer Portal
Breaking News: Active NFL Player Dae’Quan Wright Enters Transfer Portal
Cleveland Browns rookie and former Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright made history by becoming the first active NFL player to enter the transfer portal, sources close to the matter revealed. This unprecedented move has sent shockwaves throughout the sports world, leaving many wondering what this means for the future of college football and the NFL.
Wright, who was a member of the Browns’ practice squad in training camp, entered the transfer portal on Thursday, citing a desire to return to college and explore his options. As one of 16 players who plan to head back to college after a Louisiana judge granted a temporary restraining order centering around the NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock, Wright is part of a growing trend that could change the landscape of college football forever.
The Transfer Portal: A New Era for College Football
The transfer portal, which allows college players to explore their options and potentially transfer to another school, has been a topic of debate in recent years. With the NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock being challenged in court, many players are now taking advantage of this new opportunity to return to college and play another season.
Wright’s decision to enter the transfer portal is a significant development, as it sets a precedent for other active NFL players to follow suit. This could potentially lead to a wave of players returning to college, which would be a major shift in the way the NCAA and college football operate.
But what does this mean for Wright and his future in the NFL? Will he be able to return to college and play another season, or will he be forced to choose between his NFL opportunity and his desire to play college football?
Other Players Following Suit
Wright is not the only player who has entered the transfer portal in recent days. Former Seahawks and SMU running back TJ Harden, former Ohio State kicker Jayden Fielding, former LSU edge Jack Pyburn, and former Ole Miss defensive lineman Zxavian Harris are among the many players who have followed suit.
Fielding, who was a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes’ special teams unit, has filed a lawsuit in Illinois against the NCAA seeking the ability to transfer and use his fifth season of eligibility. His representation told CBS Sports that Fielding is exploring his options and considering all of his available choices.
The transfer portal has created a new era for college football, and it remains to be seen how this will play out in the coming weeks and months. One thing is certain, however: the future of college football has never been more uncertain.
The Louisiana TRO: A Time-Sensitive Window for Players
The Louisiana temporary restraining order (TRO) has created a time-sensitive window for players who are in NFL training camps or on the cut bubble. With the NFL’s final roster deadline approaching on August 30, players who are released before the season may have the opportunity to play college football during the 2026 season on a NIL or revenue share contract.
This is precisely where the NCAA never wanted eligibility litigation to go. Wright is no longer merely challenging for another collegiate season. He is actively exploring a return like dozens of others after signing multiple professional contracts, joining two NFL organizations, and participating in training camp.
College coaches can now recruit a player currently employed by an NFL franchise. What once sounded impossible is suddenly another August roster-management decision.