On Aug. 19, 33 athletes, including former Browns tight end Dae'Quan Wright, were granted a temporary restraining order to return to college for one more season. Wright entered the NCAA transfer portal the next day and warmed up with the Browns before being waived with a noninjury settlement. He later.

He agreed to play for his former coach Lane Kiffin at LSU. Browns coach Todd Monken said, "I cannot believe this is being green-lit on any level." An NFL scouting executive echoed disbelief. The SEC later ruled to bar Wright from returning, making the situation moot—until the next lawsuit.

The NFL sent a memo reminding clubs that players who signed NFL contracts and returned to college cannot re-sign with an NFL team that season. Former Saints defensive lineman Zxavian Harris and ex-Seahawks running backs TJ Harden and Anthony Hankerson also returned to college. NFL coaches, executives, and agents are assessing the evolving implications.

Rams coach Sean Mc Vay said, "I feel like I took a freakin' gummy." Legal battles continue over fifth-year eligibility after the NCAA’s new rule allowing five seasons in five years. A Colorado federal judge’s injunction for fall 2022 starters was stayed by the 10th Circuit, prompting state lawsuits nationwide.