LSU football will target another NFL player in Buccaneers EDGE Jack Pybum

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LSU football could have another NFL player in its sights if Tampa Bay Buccaneers EDGE Jack Pyburn does not make the roster. Per Jon Blau’s report, Pyburn would return to LSU if Tampa Bay waives him before the September 1 deadline.

The possibility adds another twist to Lane Kiffin’s aggressive roster strategy. LSU already has commitments from former Ole Miss players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, plus former Notre Dame EDGE Junior Tuihalamaka.

Pyburn spent his final college season at LSU in 2025 after three years at Florida. He recorded 38 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, a fumble recovery and a pass defended for the Tigers.

He then signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent. Pyburn has also made his case during the preseason as he competes for a spot on the Buccaneers’ roster.

Pyburn has remained careful about discussing his future. “I don’t want to speak too much on it. My agents are handling it,” Pyburn said. “I’m just focused on playing good football.”

LSU could add proven defensive depth

Kiffin has defended LSU’s decision to pursue players caught between college and professional football.

“At the end of the day, because of these rulings, they’re either going to play for you or they’re going to play for someone else around the country,” Kiffin said on Monday, via ESPN. “So we’ve made the decision to recruit them like probably most people are.”

Pyburn would give LSU experience, physicality and familiarity with the program. His 2025 production also fits a defense that could benefit from another experienced edge defender.

The situation remains complicated because the legal battle and SEC rules continue to shape these moves. The Louisiana court ruling gives eligible players a path back, while the SEC opposes former professionals returning to college competition. They have said that such athletes “should not be permitted to return to college competition.”

Pyburn would give LSU another veteran option rather than another developmental prospect. His familiarity with LSU could also shorten the adjustment period if he returns.

The timing now depends heavily on Tampa Bay’s roster decision. If Pyburn is released by September 1, Kiffin could add another experienced defensive piece before LSU opens the season against Clemson.

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