Jack Pyburn plans LSU return if released by Buccaneers

Former LSU defensive end Jack Pyburn intends to return to play for the LSU Tigers during the 2026 season if he is not on an NFL roster by September 1. Pyburn, an undrafted free agent currently competing for a spot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, revealed this plan in an amended complaint filed in a Louisiana federal lawsuit involving the NCAA and the SEC.

Pyburn’s eligibility is tied to a temporary restraining order issued by a Louisiana court, which allows certain former college players to regain eligibility. This ruling potentially supersedes a new SEC policy that prohibits athletes who have been on professional rosters or signed professional contracts from competing in the conference. While the restraining order provides a path for Pyburn to return to LSU, the SEC is expected to pursue legal action to uphold its policy, which could result in unspecified consequences for LSU and other conference members.