SEC commissioner Greg Sankey reaffirmed the league's commitment to its current 16 members during SEC media days, despite ongoing legal battles between Florida State, Clemson, and the ACC. With the recent addition of Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC, there has been speculation about potential further expansion, particularly involving Florida State and Clemson. However, Sankey emphasized that the focus remains on the current 16 members and achieving excellence within the conference. He acknowledged the potential for remaining at 16 for the long term and highlighted the strategic nature of the SEC's expansion compared to other conferences, which has minimized travel distances for student-athletes. Sankey reiterated that the SEC is distinctly rooted in the southeastern United States and is not considering expansion outside the region. The conference's strength and historic rivalries were key factors in the decision-making process.