Buccaneers Waive Rookie OLB After NFL-Leading Preseason

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a surprising roster decision involving one of their most productive preseason players.

Tampa Bay is waiving outside linebacker Jack Pyburn, according to Fox Sports’ Greg Auman. The move comes despite Pyburn leading the NFL in preseason sacks.

Jack Pyburn Dominated During the Preseason

Pyburn made a strong impression during his first preseason with the Buccaneers. The undrafted rookie recorded four sacks, which led every player in the NFL.

Via Fox Sports’ Greg Auman,

“Bucs are waiving undrafted rookie [O]LB Jack Pyburn, who led the NFL with four sacks in preseason. Now will see if he’s claimed off waivers by another NFL team.”

Despite that production, Pyburn will not remain on Tampa Bay’s roster. He will instead enter the waiver process and could potentially be claimed by another team.

Pyburn originally joined the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft. He played four seasons of college football, spending three years at Florida before transferring to LSU.

Pyburn’s College Situation Adds Another Layer

Pyburn’s roster status comes during an unusual situation involving his college eligibility. He was among the players who filed a lawsuit in Louisiana earlier this month.

A judge granted the temporary restraining order despite Pyburn and other players participating in NFL training camps. An amended complaint also “laid out” Pyburn’s plans to return to LSU, according to NOLA.com.

Those plans involved Pyburn returning to LSU to play for Lane Kiffin if he failed to make Tampa Bay’s roster. With the Buccaneers now waiving him, that possibility becomes particularly relevant.

Buccaneers Will See If Someone Claims Him

Pyburn’s next destination is now uncertain. Another NFL team will have the opportunity to claim him during the waiver process.

That makes his situation one worth watching closely. A rookie who led the NFL with four preseason sacks is suddenly available to every team ahead of the regular season.

For Tampa Bay, the decision is difficult to overlook given Pyburn’s preseason production. Four sacks were enough to lead the entire NFL, but they were not enough to secure his spot with the Buccaneers.