Former LSU standout and Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie Jack Pyburn has already taken the field in an NFL preseason game. However, in a stunning turn of events, the rookie could now be on his way back to college football, in a development that has since sparked a strong reaction from sports fans across the country.
Buccaneers’ Jack Pyburn Stuns NFL World With Potential Move Back to College Football
Pyburn filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, seeking a preliminary injunction that would allow him the opportunity to return to college football.
On Wednesday, Louisiana’s 19th Judicial District Court granted a temporary restraining order to the former LSU edge rusher and 15 other players in connection with the NCAA’s recent age-based eligibility rule change.
Pyburn joined the Buccaneers after spending four seasons in college football and exhausting his eligibility. However, after receiving a temporary restraining order against the NCAA, the unexpected situation prompted plenty of reactions from the NFL world.
“Played in an NFL preseason game Friday. Got $115,000 guaranteed in a pro football contract this year. There are no NCAA rules anymore,” Greg Auman of Fox Sports wrote.
Played in an NFL preseason game Friday. Got $115,000 guaranteed in a pro football contract this year. There are no NCAA rules anymore. https://t.co/QpxTxhbWAz
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) August 19, 2026
BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM: PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
“So how would this work from the NFL side? Would the Bucs still have his contractual rights when he goes back to the NFL? Do they have to release him for him to go back to college? Can they force him to stay on the practice squad?” a comment read from Mik’d Up, a weekly live sports show.
Along with Pyburn, former Ole Miss defensive lineman Xzavian Harris, ex-standout Dae’Quan Wright, and a former South Carolina standout safety have also been granted temporary restraining orders.
The TRO does not represent a final decision in Pyburn’s lawsuit, but the unusual development has already left several sports personalities questioning whether the situation could ultimately lead down a slippery slope.
START PREPARING: PFN’s Free Fantasy Draft Simulator
“Can we please, please end this,” Jason Caldwell of 247Sports Network remarked.
Can we please, please end this https://t.co/vsQbDGkSm5
— Jason Caldwell (@ITATJason) August 19, 2026
“Interesting that he was just saying how he didn’t give his best effort in college literally yesterday. Tony Clayton representing Pyburn in his case which was just filed and assigned to judge William Jordan,” Michael Cauble reported.
“This is getting out of control,” ESPN’s Booger McFarland wrote, adding his concern to the mix.
This is getting out of control https://t.co/luc6CJSsi2
— Booger (@ESPNBooger) August 19, 2026
It would be highly unusual for a player who has already made an NFL roster to leave professional football and return to the college game.
Pyburn spent four years playing college football, including three seasons at Florida and one at LSU. During his lone season with the Tigers, he started 11 games last fall and finished with 52 tackles, ranking No. 56 in PFN CFB Impact Ranking with a 77.6 grade.
The rookie already signed a three-year, $3.15 million contract with the Buccaneers that includes $115,000 in guaranteed money as an undrafted free agent.
Pyburn also made an immediate impression in his first NFL preseason appearance, recording two sacks against the New York Jets. He received a $15,000 signing bonus, although his potential departure from Tampa Bay could reportedly put his remaining $100,000 in guaranteed salary at risk.
Meanwhile, the LSU Tigers are already midway through fall camp as they prepare for their first season under new head coach Lane Kiffin.
