Buccaneers waive Jack Pyburn, clearing path toward LSU

Jack Pyburn. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Buccaneers waive Jack Pyburn, clearing path toward LSU

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 30, 2026 1:38 PM ET

The LSU Tigers have been at the forefront of the latest lawsuit that has allowed players from the 2022 collegiate class to return to college for an additional season.

It appears that the trend will continue in the coming days with the latest round of preseason roster cuts in the NFL.

Jack Pyburn has been waived by the Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers waived defensive end Jack Pyburn on Sunday, even after he led the league with four sacks in the preseason.

Pyburn has been vocal about his desire to return to college and play for Lane Kiffin at LSU if he were to be waived. That now appears to be the case and if he clears waivers, Pyburn will likely be headed back to the collegiate level for a fifth season.

NEW: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have waived EDGE Jack Pyburn, @gregauman reports.

The NFL preseason sack leader plans to make his way to LSU if he clears waivers.https://t.co/nBv2Lqlln3 https://t.co/rhC2yzoNuj pic.twitter.com/r2AeuPK4m7
— On3 (@On3) August 30, 2026

LSU could roster three former NFL players this season

Pyburn could potentially be the third former NFL player to make the decision to return to college and play for Kiffin at LSU. If he clears waivers and is not rostered, he will join tight end Dae'Quan Wright and defensive lineman Zxavian Harris.

Wright spent part of the preseason with the Cleveland Browns, while Harris spent time with the New Orleans Saints after going undrafted.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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