College Football Playoff leaders discussing rules that would disqualify teams playing former NFL players

College football programs could eventually put their College Football Playoff eligibility at risk by rostering former professional players. This is a situation that may not see a resolution for quite some time.

Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger reported on Aug. 28 that CFP executives were discussing potential participation rules that could disqualify programs rostering certain athletes, including former professional football players.

Those conversations aren’t going away.

Dellenger provided an update Tuesday following a two-hour call between CFP leaders.

“On a two-hour call today, CFP leaders did indeed discuss implementing participation rules that disqualify programs rostering former pro players. They also explored expansion toward a 24-team playoff. Another meeting to deeper examine each issue is expected later this month.”

The fact that CFP leaders are discussing potential disqualification adds another layer to one of college football’s biggest controversies entering the 2026 season. The issue of former professional players returning to college has quickly escalated across the sport.

The Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, and ACC have all adopted policies restricting players with certain professional experience from returning to compete within their conferences, not just in football. Now, the CFP could potentially establish consequences of its own.

Meanwhile, playoff expansion remains another major topic. CFP leaders also explored moving toward a 24-team field, which would represent another massive expansion of college football’s postseason. Many won’t like that outside of certain programs; however, this seems to be another avoidable conversation for many. Neither issue appears close to being settled just yet.

Week 1 of the CFB season starts on Thursday night. At least we can all enjoy games in what should be an exciting season.

The post College Football Playoff leaders discussing rules that would disqualify teams playing former NFL players appeared first on ClutchPoints.