TJ Harden Joins Wave of NFL Rookies Returning to College via Transfer Portal
Former SMU running back TJ Harden has entered the NCAA transfer portal, joining a growing list of NFL rookies seeking to return to college football. This move follows a Louisiana court ruling granting temporary restraining orders to 16 players, including Harden, allowing them to bypass standard eligibility limits. Harden, who went undrafted in 2026 and was waived by the Seattle Seahawks, now seeks a third college opportunity after stints at UCLA and SMU. The development highlights the chaos surrounding new NCAA eligibility rules, which have prompted several undrafted free agents to pursue additional seasons despite signing professional contracts.