LSU went into its September 5 season opener against Clemson without Dae'Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris on its submitted roster. The two former Ole Miss players had been seeking a return to college football after time with NFL teams, but neither appeared on the list LSU sent to the SEC before the game.
The Tigers submitted 103 names, leaving two places available. WAFB reported, citing ESPN's Pete Thamel, that both players were enrolled at LSU and could potentially be added later in the season. The report did not establish when that might happen or guarantee that either would join the roster.
Why the two open spots mattered
The timing of LSU's submission left a route back for the players. Louisiana Sports explained that the SEC requires a roster before the season begins, while later additions depend on available space and enrollment as of the opening game. With 103 of 105 places filled, LSU had room without committing either spot.
Louisiana Sports also reported that Junior Tuihalamaka, a transfer from Notre Dame who had not signed with an NFL team, was included. His position differed from those of Wright and Harris, who had signed professional contracts.
Experience LSU left off the list
Wright brought a receiving record of 66 catches, 1,029 yards and nine touchdowns across his final two seasons at Ole Miss. Harris recorded 17.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks over four seasons there, according to Louisiana Sports. Their college experience explains the interest in whether LSU would eventually add them.
Lane Kiffin later described the choice to leave them off as a decision made with the wider interests of LSU and its football program in mind. The Associated Press reported that the omission avoided an immediate confrontation with the SEC amid the dispute over returning former professional players.
For the Clemson opener, the roster decision was settled: neither player was included. The remaining question was whether LSU would use those two open places later. Enrollment and available space kept that possibility alive; they did not establish a return date.
