Former LSU football defensive end Jack Pyburn made a statement in his NFL preseason debut. Pyburn, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, registered two sacks vs. the New York Jets in Week 1 of the preseason. Pyburn played a total of 25 snaps and added two assisted tackles to go along with the sacks.
Pyburn went undrafted and joined the Bucs in free agency, meaning he needs a strong training camp and preseason to make the roster. At 6-foot-4, Pyburn has the size to play in the NFL, but he didn't post flashy numbers in college.
Pyburn spent three years at Florida before transferring to LSU for the 2025 season. Pyburn was dependable at defensive end, playing 560 snaps. He posted an 85.3 PFF run defense grade, making him one of the top run-defending defensive ends in the SEC. Pyburn racked up 34 pressures, but only got home for three sacks.
LSU’s Jack Pyburn had two sacks in his NFL debut 💪🏽🐯🏴☠️👀 pic.twitter.com/8Zfni9hXMc
— Carter Bryant (@PowerHourLSU) August 15, 2026
Pyburn's all-around skill set makes him an intriguing candidate for the Bucs roster. As some NFL offenses transition back to run-heavy schemes, playing defensive end isn't just about rushing the passer. Pyburn has the tools to play the run and get after the QB.
Former Gators and LSU OLB Jack Pyburn said he’s worked harder on the mental side of the game and when he wasn’t drafted, took responsibility for it. He got off social media. He had 2 sacks Friday vs Jets. pic.twitter.com/iQozWDRE40
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) August 17, 2026
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Former LSU football DE records two sacks in NFL debut