Kansas City Chiefs Claim Jack Pyburn, Impact on NFL and College Football

1 month ago 0

Recent reports indicated that Jack Pyburn might earn about $1 million in 2026 if cut by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, allowing a return to college at LSU. However, the Kansas City Chiefs altered this path. On Monday, the Chiefs claimed Pyburn off waivers from the Buccaneers, as confirmed by the NFL waiver wire. This move ensures Pyburn continues his NFL journey as part of the Chiefs’ 53-man roster.

Pyburn’s decision to remain in the NFL may lead to a pay reduction. His rookie salary is set at $885,000, lower than the projected $1 million from a college return under NIL agreements. This situation showcases how NIL rules, along with legal battles over eligibility, are transforming college football into a financial rival for some NFL prospects.

Jack Pyburn, a defensive end for the LSU Tigers, awaited the snap during the first quarter against the Mississippi Rebels on September 27, 2025. Despite not being drafted from LSU in April, Pyburn’s journey continues. He played one season at LSU, after transferring from the University of Florida (2023-2024), participating in 12 games with 11 starts, recording 52 tackles, 2 sacks, and 5.5 tackles for loss.

The narrative surrounding Pyburn illustrates how financial disparities impact decisions for players outside star quarterbacks, who often leave college early for lucrative NFL careers.

Pyburn’s decision followed a legal victory. He was part of a lawsuit with over 30 athletes in Louisiana, securing a temporary restraining order that allowed them to play in college during 2026. This ruling permitted players meeting specific criteria to return to school if they could terminate professional contracts and repay earnings.

Pyburn was ready to return to college after the Buccaneers were expected to cut him, which they did, initially guaranteeing him $115,000, including a $15,000 signing bonus.

Nevertheless, with the Chiefs claiming Pyburn, his NFL contract remains intact. Pyburn informed LSU of his decision to withdraw from the lawsuit and commit to his NFL career with the Chiefs. This shift marks a significant development in how players navigate decisions between college and professional football.

Follow Armando Salguero on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO. Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.