Alabama and Auburn condemn Protect College Sports Act

The University of Alabama and Auburn University released a joint statement urging Congress to reject the Protect College Sports Act in its current form. The bipartisan bill, introduced on May 27, 2026 by Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell, would create a federal framework governing college athletics, including NIL rights, athlete protections, revenue‑share caps and media‑rights rules.

The universities argue the legislation would undermine the existing House settlement, narrow disclosure and enforcement tools, invite new litigation, and expand federal micromanagement of roster decisions, scheduling and internal governance. They also contend it favors private‑equity interests by pressuring schools to pool media‑rights revenue. The statement, signed by the board of trustees, presidents and university leaders, echoed concerns voiced by the SEC and Big Ten.

Alabama and Auburn emphasized their support for student‑athlete opportunities, women's and Olympic sports, and fair competition, but said the bill fails to deliver these goals and should be amended or withdrawn.