Former LSU Tigers defensive end Jack Pyburn was just given another year of eligibility despite making his NFL preseason debut with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
A bit of out-of-the-blue news for LSU Tigers fans on Wednesday night: former defensive end Jack Pyburn was part of a large group that just received another year of eligibility from the NCAA, per Pete Nakos of On3.
Pyburn was a part of a large group of players who were granted a temporary restraining order against the NCAA by a Louisiana court, allowing them to return to college for the 2026/2027 season. This is a major shakeup coming right before the year begins.
The defensive end just made his NFL preseason debut for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but now he could end up on the Tigers' defensive line this season. There is expected to be mutual interest, though he could still end up in the NFL, making this extra complicated.
Pyburn signed with the Buccaneers after being undrafted. Part of the reason that he was looking to return in the first place is that he is not expected to make their roster. He won't officially come back to college until he is cut.
In Tampa Bay's first preseason game, though, Pyburn dominated the New York Jets' offensive line and came away with two sacks. An impressive feat in a preseason game, and interesting given that he had just three sacks across 41 college appearances.
Pyburn is far more of a run defender than a true pass-rushing threat, but an offseason with NFL coaches certainly helps. It could also be a reason why he could end up contributing quickly.
If he does end up joining LSU even just a week before the year begins, it shouldn't take too long to get him caught up, seeing as though he is obviously in shape and started games in this same defense just last year.
It would make sense for the Tigers to bring him back, too, given the loss of Gabriel Reliford earlier this spring hurting their defensive line depth. It could actually be a major blessing that just fell into the team's lap.
There were three different LSU student-athletes who also received TROs. Soccer captain Jazmin Ferguson, Men's Basketball's Rashad King and Women's Basketball's Amiya Joyner. Like with Pyburn, it wouldn't be a surprise to see them return to campus. King would be the least likely, but it could be a solid reunion given that they do still need bodies. All will have the option to transfer, though, per the TRO.
