Jack Pyburn Waived by Buccaneers, Could Return to LSU? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers waived undrafted rookie linebacker/edge rusher Jack Pyburn on Sunday, according to a team source confirmed to The Athletic. The move has sparked speculation about Pyburn’s potential return to college football, with his former school, LSU, at the center of the discussion over eligibility for players with professional experience. Pyburn, 22, was signed by the Buccaneers in May and made a case for his 53-man roster spot with a league-leading four sacks in three preseason games. However, the team waived him ahead of Sunday’s final roster cut deadline. Pyburn will now face the NFL waiver wire, where a team could claim him and inherit his current contract. If he clears waivers, he will become a free agent and can sign with any team. The most intriguing aspect of his situation, however, is the possibility of a return to college football. Pyburn’s agents first raised the idea a few months ago as the NCAA simplified its eligibility rules, allowing athletes five years to play five seasons. This change, however, does not apply to fourth-year seniors like Pyburn, who had already completed their eligibility. This led to a wave of lawsuits from 2022 high school recruits seeking an extra year of college eligibility. Pyburn was part of a lawsuit filed by over 30 athletes in Louisiana that secured a temporary restraining order, allowing them to play in college this academic year. To regain eligibility, Pyburn and other players who participated in NFL camps or preseason rosters would need to terminate their professional contracts and repay any earnings. Pyburn’s deal with the Buccaneers guaranteed him $115,000, including a $15,000 signing bonus.#tampa_bay_buccaneers #lsu #lane_kiffin #jack_pyburn #blake_baker
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Name Undrafted Rookie Jalon Daniels as Backup Quarterback The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected undrafted rookie free agent Jalon Daniels as their backup quarterback for the upcoming season, according to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The decision was made after Daniels outperformed veteran Jake Browning in training camp and preseason games, securing the backup role despite being a long shot to make the roster. Browning, who signed a one-year deal with the Bucs earlier this year, will be released as the team reduces its roster to 53 players. Running back Josh Williams, who also competed for a roster spot, will also be waived. Daniels joined the Buccaneers earlier this year on a deal that included a signing bonus of $25,000. He participated in all three of Tampa Bay’s preseason games, completing 61.4% of his passes for 239 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 37 yards and a touchdown. His performance during training camp and the preseason games led to his promotion over Browning. In the preseason finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Daniels started the game but struggled. He completed 8 of 15 pass attempts for 57 yards and lost a fumble. Bucs coach Todd Bowles acknowledged the performance, stating that the team would review game film to assess Daniels’ readiness for the regular season. “It’s not really the completions,” Bowles said. “It’s the overall operation to make sure he’s fine with that, and then we’ll come back and look at the film because it wasn’t very good offensively tonight.” The Buccaneers’ roster cuts will include the release of Browning and Williams. Williams, who had 57 rushing yards on 18 carries with a touchdown during the preseason, was considered a strong contender for the No. 3 running back role but was waived.#ian_rapoport #tampa_bay_buccaneers #jalon_daniels #jake_browning #todd_bowles
Group of Players Granted Restraining Order Enter Transfer Portal The NCAA transfer portal has reopened for eight former college football players who were granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) earlier this week, allowing them to return to college for a fifth year of eligibility. The decision comes after a court case in Louisiana, where the plaintiffs—former athletes who had previously sued the NCAA—secured the TRO on Wednesday. The order permits these players to enter their names in the transfer portal during a one-week window outside the regular portal period, which typically runs from January 2 to January 16. The eight players who have officially entered the portal include running back TJ Harden (SMU), tight end Dae'Quan Wright (Ole Miss), offensive lineman Weylin Lapuaho (BYU), defensive lineman Zxavian Harris (Ole Miss), linebacker Trent Hendrick (James Madison), cornerback Ethan Johnson (App State), cornerback Blake Cotton (Utah), and kicker Luke Drzewiecki (New Mexico). Among them, Wright is currently on the Cleveland Browns' roster, while Harden played in the Seattle Seahawks' preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys before being cut on Monday. Harris was waived by the New Orleans Saints on August 8. The TRO, issued by a Louisiana court, also addresses broader NCAA rules. It temporarily halts the enforcement of the "ghost transfer rule," which previously penalized programs for adding transfers after the January portal window. Under the NCAA’s prior regulations, such violations could result in a head coach being suspended for 50% of the season and a fine equal to 20% of the program’s football budget. The TRO also blocks the NCAA’s restitution rule, which required players who signed professional contracts or worked with agents to repay any money received before returning to college.#ncaa #texas #tampa_bay_buccaneers #arizona_cardinals #louisiana
Mike Evans Makes Surprising Move to 49ers After 12 Seasons with Buccaneers Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans has made a significant shift in his NFL career, leaving the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after 12 seasons to join the San Francisco 49ers. The move, which came in the form of a three-year, $42.4 million contract, marked one of the league’s most notable trades of the offseason. Evans, who had spent his entire professional career with the Buccaneers, cited personal and professional reasons for the decision, emphasizing his desire for a fresh start while acknowledging his deep ties to Tampa. In an interview with KNBR, Evans explained his departure, stating, “I felt like it’s what I needed at this point in my career. I love Tampa. Been there my whole career, 12 seasons. Love the fanbase, love the people in the front office, my teammates. But just felt like it was time for a change, and this team is definitely, feel like it’s rejuvenized me and potentially added some years on my career.” He highlighted the 49ers’ competitive environment as a key factor, noting, “It was like self-explanatory. I mean, they had everything I was looking for. They checked all the boxes. Try to win now. Quarterback, great skilled players, great defense, great coaching staff, and then just great organization. And then a bonus is the weather that I didn’t even know about.” Evans further praised the 49ers’ roster, calling it one of the best teams he has been part of. “I’ve been around some great teams, and this stacks up there with one of the best teams I’ve been a part of. Obviously, we have to go out there and prove it… This stacks up right there, and hopefully we can accomplish what I accomplished with that team.#san_francisco_49ers #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #kyle_shanahan #texas_am
49ers WR Mike Evans on His Departure from Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mike Evans, the 49ers’ newly signed wide receiver, has revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a 12-year tenure. The move, which ended his career with the Buccaneers, was driven by personal timing rather than dissatisfaction with his previous team. Evans expressed his deep appreciation for the Buccaneers, including the fan base, front office, and teammates, but emphasized that the opportunity with the 49ers aligned better with his current goals. Evans, who turns 33 this month, described the 49ers’ roster and organizational structure as a perfect fit for his aspirations. He highlighted the presence of quarterback Brock Purdy, a deep group of skill players, a formidable defense anchored by Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, and the strategic vision of coach Kyle Shanahan. “They had everything I was looking for,” Evans said during an interview with KNBR. “They checked all the boxes. Try to win now. Quarterback, great skilled players, great defense, great coaching staff, and then just great organization. And then a bonus is the weather that I didn’t even know about.” The 49ers’ recent history of near-misses in the playoffs resonated with Evans, who won a Super Bowl with the Buccaneers in 2020. He believes his experience and production could be the missing piece for San Francisco to finally secure a championship. “I hope I am,” Evans said, acknowledging the challenge of overcoming past failures. “I’m grinding and I still feel really good. I still feel like I can definitely be that piece to help this team get over the hump.#san_francisco_49ers #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #brock_purdy #nick_bosa
Former Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro Signs With Buccaneers Miles Killebrew, a former Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro special teams player, has signed a one-year, $1.8 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler. The move marks Killebrew’s return to Tampa Bay, where he will reunite with former Steelers special teams coordinator Danny Smith, who now holds a coaching role with the Buccaneers. Killebrew, 28, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the 2025 season, which limited his playing time for the Steelers. Despite the injury, he remained a key contributor on special teams throughout the year. The 2021 draft pick joined the Steelers after being selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and quickly established himself as a reliable special teams player. Over his career, Killebrew has accumulated 166 tackles and two interceptions, with his most notable season coming in 2023. That year, he led the league with 23 special teams tackles and even started one game at safety when injuries forced the Steelers to adjust their defensive lineup. Killebrew’s role with the Steelers was primarily as a heavier safety in the goal line package, where he excelled in run-stopping situations. He rarely saw action outside of that context, focusing instead on his specialized role on special teams. His leadership on the field was recognized when he was named a three-time captain for the Steelers, a testament to his work ethic and reliability. The injury sustained in 2025 disrupted his season, but Killebrew’s contributions to the team’s special teams unit remained significant. During the 2025 season, he recorded five tackles in five games, all of which came on special teams assignments.#pittsburgh_steelers #tampa_bay_buccaneers #nfl_draft #miles_killebrew #danny_smith
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sign Safety Miles Killebrew The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew on Thursday, adding depth to their defensive and special teams units. Killebrew, who has spent the majority of his NFL career as a special teams specialist, brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the team. Over his 10 seasons in the league, he has appeared in 151 games, accumulating 91 total special teams tackles, which ranks second in the NFL since he entered the league in 2016. Killebrew’s time with the Steelers was marked by consistent performance and recognition. He earned consecutive Pro Bowl selections as a special teams player in 2023 and 2024, becoming the first player in Steelers history to achieve that feat. Additionally, he leads all active NFL players in career blocked punts with four. In 2023, Killebrew was named to the Associated Press First-Team All-Pro as a special teamer, underscoring his impact beyond his primary role. While his special teams contributions are notable, Killebrew has also made a mark on defense. Over his career, he has made five starts, recording 75 tackles (three for loss), six passes defended, two interceptions (including a touchdown), two quarterback hits, and one forced fumble. His ability to disrupt plays with forceful strikes and physicality in the box is expected to translate well to the Buccaneers’ defensive scheme. The Buccaneers’ decision to sign Killebrew reflects their focus on bolstering special teams, a unit that has been a strength for the team in recent seasons. His experience and versatility could provide a reliable presence in key moments, particularly in high-stakes situations. With his tough disposition and knack for making plays, Killebrew is poised to contribute immediately to Tampa Bay’s roster.#pittsburgh_steelers #tampa_bay_buccaneers #miles_killebrew #cade_otton #alex_anzalone
Steelers All-Pro Signs With NFC South Team Miles Killebrew, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ special teams standout, has agreed to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The move marks a significant shift for Killebrew, who spent four seasons with the Steelers, contributing to their special teams unit with consistency and excellence. Killebrew’s departure comes as the Buccaneers bolster their special teams coaching staff, welcoming former Steelers special teams coach Danny Smith, who will now serve in the same role for Tampa Bay. Killebrew joined the Steelers in 2021 and became a key player for the team, appearing in every game from 2021 through 2024. His performance earned him two Pro Bowl selections in 2023 and 2024, and he was named First-Team All-Pro as a special teams contributor in 2024. Despite his success, Killebrew’s 2024 season was cut short when he suffered a season-ending injury during an early-game matchup against the Cleveland Browns. The injury occurred on a field that was in poor condition, a factor that likely influenced the Steelers’ decision to move forward without him. The Steelers’ decision to let Killebrew go appears to have been influenced by the performance of Ben Skowronek, the team’s special teams coordinator. Skowronek earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2025 for his work on special teams, which likely made the Steelers more confident in their existing personnel. This confidence, combined with the need to explore new opportunities for Killebrew, led to his departure. Killebrew’s move to the Buccaneers is part of a broader free agency landscape for the NFL, where teams are actively seeking talent to address specific needs.#pittsburgh_steelers #tampa_bay_buccaneers #miles_killebrew #danny_smith #ben_skowronek
Buccaneers legend Mike Evans closes in on free agency Mike Evans, a key figure in the Buccaneers' success over the past decade, is nearing the end of his contract with the team. With free agency set to begin on Monday, the receiver is expected to make a significant move, either staying with Tampa Bay or joining a new franchise. Evans, who has spent 12 seasons with the Buccaneers, has built a strong case for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but his future remains uncertain as he prepares to enter the open market. Evans’ potential departure has sparked reactions from teammates, including Chris Godwin, who expressed surprise at the possibility of the veteran receiver playing for another team. Godwin, who chose to remain with the Buccaneers during the 2025 free agency period, shared his thoughts via Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. “It would be so weird,” Godwin said. “I can’t imagine talking to him on a different field and seeing him in a different jersey. I hope that he’s here. I don’t know the intricacies of the deal. Everybody does their own thing. I don’t know what he’s willing to take and I don’t know what they’re willing to offer. But I hope that he’s back, for a lot of reasons, but he’s my brother.” Evans’ career with the Buccaneers has been marked by consistency and production. Over his 12 seasons, he recorded 866 receptions for 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns, ranking him among the league’s all-time leaders in receiving touchdowns. His 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons tied him with Jerry Rice for the all-time record, and he holds the distinction of having the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to start a career. Evans was also a key contributor to the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV victory in 2021.#mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #chris_godwin #rick_stroud #super_bowl_lv
Mike Evans free agency rumor is good news for Broncos, Patriots and 49ers The end of Mike Evans' tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers might be near, and it’s seen as positive news for the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, and San Francisco 49ers. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Evans is expected to become a free agent after failing to reach a deal with the Buccaneers. Sources indicate that Evans is determined to leave Tampa Bay after 12 seasons, with interested teams believing he is serious about moving on. Evans will be eligible to negotiate with any team starting Monday at noon ET, when the legal tampering period begins. However, he cannot finalize a contract until Wednesday, when the new league year officially starts. Reports suggest Evans has specific requirements for his next team, including a high volume of targets, a respected play-caller, and an opportunity to win a Super Bowl. The Broncos, Patriots, and 49ers all align with these criteria. The Broncos and Patriots meet all three demands, while the 49ers satisfy two, though their Super Bowl contention might be a concern for Evans. The 49ers could face a transition year in 2026 as they aim to rebuild financially and age their roster, despite finishing with 12 regular-season wins and a playoff appearance last season. Another key factor for Evans is playing with a quarterback he respects. All three teams could fulfill this requirement, as Bo Nix and Drake Maye are emerging stars, and Brock Purdy, a Super Bowl participant, is already on the roster. The Patriots, who are cutting Stefon Diggs, have a pressing need at wide receiver and could offer Evans a prominent role. The 49ers, facing potential departures of Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Brandon Aiyuk, might be left with only Ricky Pearsall as their top target.#new_england_patriots #san_francisco_49ers #denver_broncos #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers
NY Giants Free Agency Rumors: Mike Evans in the Mix The New York Giants are reportedly considering a trade for wide receiver Mike Evans, according to a report from CBS Sports. The 33-year-old receiver, who has spent 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is said to be on the Giants’ radar if he decides to leave Tampa. Jonathan Jones of CBS notes that Evans’ departure is “a real chance,” with the Giants potentially offering a two-year contract worth $20-25 million annually. Despite the high price tag, the Giants are willing to pursue Evans as part of their strategy to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. A healthy Evans would complement rookie Malik Nabers, providing a strong receiving corps. Evans, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 231 pounds, has accumulated 866 receptions for 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns throughout his career. He has also been selected to the Pro Bowl six times, highlighting his consistent performance over the years. In addition to Evans, the Giants are also linked to Wan’Dale Robinson, their slot receiver. Jones reports that the Tennessee Titans could be a destination for Robinson, who recorded over 1,000 yards receiving in 2025 and has had consecutive seasons with more than 90 catches. A potential reunion with former Giants head coach Brian Daboll, now the Titans’ offensive coordinator, adds to the intrigue of Robinson’s possible move. The Giants’ willingness to engage in high-stakes trades underscores their commitment to reshaping their roster. With head coach John Harbaugh actively pursuing top-tier talent, the team’s free agency moves could significantly impact their 2026 season prospects.#cbs_sports #new_york_giants #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #jonathan_jones
NFL Analyst Suggests Mike Evans Could Be Ideal Fit for Josh Allen and the Bills The Buffalo Bills are actively seeking a new wide receiver this offseason, aiming to address a long-standing gap in their roster since losing Stefon Diggs two years ago. With a lack of a dominant number one receiver, some analysts believe Mike Evans could provide the ideal complement to Josh Allen’s talents. Former Super Bowl champion Jason McCourty recently highlighted Evans as a strong candidate, emphasizing that while he may not be the same elite player he once was, his experience and production still make him a valuable asset. McCourty argued during a segment on Get Up that Evans would be a perfect fit for Buffalo, noting that the team doesn’t necessarily need a traditional number one receiver like AJ Brown. Instead, Evans’ consistency and ability to create separation could elevate Allen’s performance. Despite facing significant injuries in the past season, which limited his receiving yards, Evans has historically surpassed 1000 yards annually. His reliability and understanding of the game make him a dependable target for any quarterback, including Allen. The move to Buffalo would represent a major change for Evans, who has spent the past 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While the transition to colder weather might be a challenge, his track record suggests he can adapt. Fans in Buffalo have long expressed frustration with the team’s lack of elite receivers, as evidenced by Khalil Shakir’s modest 770-yard average over the past few seasons. In contrast, Evans’ peak performance in 2018 saw him nearly double that total, showcasing his potential to thrive in a new environment. Evans’ physical condition and age also make him an attractive option for the Bills.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #jason_mccourty
Free Disaster Kits Distributed to Tampa Residents Ahead of 2026 Hurricane Season Tampa residents received free disaster kits ahead of the 2026 hurricane season as part of a community preparedness initiative. The kits, organized by the nonprofit Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, were distributed to 500 households in the city. Volunteers packed the kits with essential items such as flashlights, fireproof bags, solar-powered battery packs, and dry bags, aiming to ease the burden of emergency planning for families. The event, held at the AdventHealth Training Center, was a collaboration between the nonprofit, Verizon, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Residents praised the initiative for providing critical supplies without requiring personal financial investment. Ken Escobio, a Lake Magdalene resident, noted that the kits offered peace of mind by eliminating the need to search for emergency items during a crisis. Organizers emphasized that preparedness is crucial, especially for those without family support or financial resources to build their own kits. Kim Mirabella, president of Verizon Frontline, highlighted the importance of having a ready supply, citing her parents’ experience with flooding during a previous storm. While the kits are valued at around $65, organizers stressed that they are not a complete solution, encouraging residents to supplement them with additional supplies. Residents like Lucy White expressed gratitude for the kits, noting they would save money and reduce anxiety during emergencies. Officials recommended gradually assembling disaster kits to avoid last-minute costs. CERT volunteers, who received training to assist during emergencies, also participated in the distribution.#tampa_bay_buccaneers #tampa #rebuilding_together_greater_florida #adventhealth_training_center #verizon
