Chiefs Claim Jack Pyburn Off Waivers, Ending Potential LSU Return

The Waiver Claim and NFL Roster Reality

According to reports from ESPN and The New York Times, the Chiefs officially claimed Pyburn off waivers on Monday, keeping the edge rusher in the professional ranks. Pyburn initially signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent following the NFL draft. During the preseason, he recorded four sacks across three games, a performance that boosted his professional stock after a college career primarily known for run defense rather than quarterback disruption.

Despite that preseason production, the Buccaneers waived Pyburn during roster cuts, which triggered intense speculation about a potential move to Louisiana State University. However, because those changes did not automatically cover fourth-year seniors who had already completed their eligibility under previous guidelines, Pyburn had joined a lawsuit filed by more than 30 athletes in Louisiana seeking a temporary restraining order to regain college eligibility.

Impact on LSU and Roster Fit in Kansas City

The program maintains several players navigating eligibility questions, including Junior Tuihalamaka, Dae’Quan Wright, and Zxavian Harris.

In Kansas City, Chiefs beat writer Jesse Newell notes that Pyburn fits a mold similar to former linebacker Leo Chenal, who signed with Washington in free agency. While Pyburn lacks Chenal’s elite athleticism and speed—factors that contributed to him going undrafted in 2026—analysts point to his high-motor play style and stout run defense. Dane Brugler profiled Pyburn in his 2026 NFL draft guide, describing him as a player who competes with intense energy and profiles effectively against the run. The Chiefs added Pyburn alongside undrafted defensive tackle Bryson Eason, who was claimed from the San Francisco 49ers.