LSU coach Lane Kiffin defended his decision to recruit NFL rookies seeking a fifth year of college eligibility, stating he is simply competing with other coaches for players granted injunctions. "At the end of the day, because of these rulings, they're either going to play for you or they're going to play for someone else around the country," Kiffin said.

The Tigers have secured commitments from former Ole Miss tight end Dae'Quan Wright, defensive lineman Zxavian Harris, and Notre Dame’s Junior Tuihalamaka. These athletes were among 16 players granted temporary restraining orders by a Louisiana court, allowing them to return to school after playing under the belief their eligibility was exhausted before the NCAA’s new five-year model took effect.

Kiffin argued it is "really wrong" to criticize the players, noting judges ruled they were wronged by the NCAA. While more than a dozen former FBS players entered the transfer portal due to the orders, Kiffin admitted that generally, NFL players returning to college should not, but each circumstance must be viewed differently. He denied rumors that he personally contacted Browns coach Todd Monken regarding Wright.

LSU enters the season ranked No. 11 in the AP Top 25 with over 40 incoming transfers. The team opens on Sept. 5 against Clemson.