Ole Miss files lawsuits against Princewill Umanmielen and Devin Harper - on3.com

What the report says

On3’s Ole Miss Spirit reported that the University of Mississippi has filed civil lawsuits against two former football players, offensive lineman Devin Harper and defensive end Princewill Umanmielen, seeking close to $1 million combined. According to the report, the school announced the legal action Tuesday after filing complaints Monday, with Judge Kelly Luther assigned to the Umanmielen case and Judge Kent E. Smith assigned to Harper’s case.

The complaints center on alleged breaches of revenue-sharing agreements tied to the players’ departures for LSU after Lane Kiffin left Ole Miss. On3 reported that both players stayed with Ole Miss through its College Football Playoff run and transferred after the season concluded following Jan. 8. Ole Miss said the agreements included provisions requiring repayment of a predetermined amount if the players left before completing their commitments.

The article listed timelines showing Harper signed his agreement with Ole Miss on Jan. 6, entered the transfer portal Jan. 14 and signed with LSU on Jan. 16. Umanmielen signed his agreement Jan. 3, entered the portal Jan. 20 and signed with LSU Jan. 21. Ole Miss said it sent payment requests to each player, later contacted LSU, and was told by LSU that it was not a party to the contracts.

The dispute is notable because it reflects the emerging legal uncertainty around athlete compensation, transfer movement and school revenue-sharing contracts in college sports. Ole Miss said it values its athletes but also expects contracts to be honored, while On3 reported the university said it tried to resolve the matter before filing suit.