LSU and Louisiana AG move to dismiss SEC lawsuit

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and Louisiana State University (LSU) officials have filed a motion to dismiss a federal lawsuit brought by the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The legal action follows a dispute regarding player eligibility and recruitment practices.

The SEC originally filed the complaint in September, alleging that LSU created a “competitive imbalance” and violated the conference’s First Amendment rights by attempting to sign players who had previously declared for the NFL Draft. The conference claims LSU failed to roster players who intended to exercise their fifth-year options after turning professional.

In the motion to dismiss, LSU argues that the SEC faces “no imminent, concrete harm” and that the complaint fails to state a valid claim. The filing further suggests that any alleged harm to the SEC is “self-inflicted,” noting that LSU lacks the power to force actions upon the 16-member conference.

Attorney General Murrill described the lawsuit as “improper and moot,” stating she intervened because de-escalation efforts between the university and the conference had stalled. The SEC expressed disappointment regarding the filing, stating it occurred despite ongoing efforts to resolve concerns regarding LSU’s commitment to conference rules and shared governance. The conference is currently preparing a response for the court.