The Kansas City Chiefs have claimed linebacker Jack Pyburn off waivers from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, effectively ending his plan to return to LSU where he could have potentially earned more money through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Pyburn's NFL career will continue on the Chiefs' 53-man roster, but his rookie salary of $885,000 is less than the estimated $1 million he might have made in 2026 had he returned to college football. This situation highlights the evolving financial landscape of college sports, where NIL rules have created a scenario where some players may opt for college over the NFL for financial reasons.
Pyburn was not drafted out of LSU in April. He played one season for the Tigers in 2025 after transferring from the University of Florida, where he played in 2023 and 2024. During his single season at LSU, Pyburn recorded 52 tackles, two sacks, and 5.5 tackles for loss in 12 games, with 11 starts.
Pyburn was part of a lawsuit filed by over 30 athletes in Louisiana that sought and obtained a temporary restraining order, allowing them to play college football in the 2026 academic year. Under the terms of the ruling, players who met certain criteria and had signed with or been drafted by NFL teams were permitted to return to school if they could terminate their professional contracts and repay any earnings. Pyburn had reportedly been prepared to do this with the Buccaneers, who had guaranteed him $115,000, including a $15,000 signing bonus, and were expected to release him.
However, the Chiefs' waiver claim means his contract with the Buccaneers is not terminated, and his rights now belong to Kansas City. Pyburn has reportedly informed LSU that he is withdrawing his name from the ongoing eligibility lawsuit and will remain in the NFL, though the Chiefs' claim effectively removed his choice.
This development comes amid ongoing discussions about NIL and its impact on college athletics, with figures like Nebraska coach Matt Rhule having previously voiced concerns about the financial implications for college football programs and player development.