Jason Pierre-Paul signs with Buccaneers practice squad after two-year NFL absence, veteran edge rusher gets second chance

Jason Pierre-Paul is getting a second chance in the NFL. The 36-year-old veteran edge rusher signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad on Monday after working out for the team, marking his return to professional football after nearly two years away from the field.

The Comeback Attempt Begins

Jason Pierre-Paul spent the entire 2024 season away from the field, but never stopped dreaming of returning to professional football. Throughout the spring and summer of 2025, the veteran edge rusher made it clear he intended to make a comeback.

The signing with the Buccaneers represents a major opportunity for the 36-year-old to prove he still has something left in the tank. Pierre-Paul has maintained his physical conditioning and showed enough in his workout to convince the organization. Tampa Bay’s coaching staff decided to take a chance on the veteran presence and leadership he brings to the practice squad.

A Historic Career Makes Its Final Push

Jason Pierre-Paul accumulated 94.5 career sacks during his NFL journey, establishing himself as one of the most prolific pass rushers of his era. His resume includes multiple playoff appearances and championships, with his Super Bowl victories cementing his legacy in professional football.

The New York Giants drafted him in the first round, and he developed into a disruptive force along the defensive line. Beyond his individual statistics, Pierre-Paul has become known for his work ethic and determination despite facing significant adversities throughout his career.

Previous Tampa Bay Success and New Beginnings

Aspect	Details
Last Team	Miami Dolphins (2023)
Previous Buccaneers Tenure	2018-2021 (4 seasons)
Buccaneers Sacks	33.0 sacks during tenure
Current Role	Practice Squad Member

Pierre-Paul is returning to familiar territory with the Buccaneers, where he previously spent four productive seasons from 2018 to 2021. During that span, he became instrumental in the team’s defensive success and helped anchor a formidable pass rush attack. The connection to Tampa Bay makes his comeback particularly meaningful, as he knows the system and understands the organization’s expectations.

The Road to Recovery and Professional Opportunity

Jason Pierre-Paul faced 2024 without an NFL opportunity, but he refused to accept his career was over. Throughout the offseason, he trained intensely to prove he could still be a productive edge rusher at a high level. His signing demonstrates that teams recognize his potential value if healthy and engaged.

The practice squad assignment provides Pierre-Paul with a pathway to the active roster if injuries occur or if he demonstrates enough quality during practice sessions. Tampa Bay gains experience and veteran knowledge on the defensive line while maintaining the flexibility to move him up if needed. Multiple sources indicate Pierre-Paul remains motivated and ready to contribute immediately.

What Does This Mean for the Buccaneers Defensive Outlook?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are navigating a busy stretch of their 2025 season, and adding a veteran pass rusher to the practice squad provides insurance against potential injuries. Pierre-Paul’s vast experience and work ethic offer value beyond statistics, helping develop younger defensive players and providing tactical expertise during meetings and preparation.

At 36 years old, Pierre-Paul doesn’t need to prove he was once an elite player—he needs to show he can still perform at a competitive level. The Buccaneers are giving him that opportunity, and the veteran edge rusher has publicly stated he believes he has more football left to play. Can Pierre-Paul make an impact in his second chapter with Tampa Bay?

“Jason Pierre-Paul hasn’t played in an NFL game in two years, but he might not be done just yet. Pierre-Paul signed with the Buccaneers’ practice squad after a successful workout.”

— NBC Sports, Sports Reporting

Sources

• NBC Sports – Breaking news on Pierre-Paul signing with Buccaneers practice squad
• NFL Network – Confirms 36-year-old edge rusher’s two-year absence from NFL competition
• Fantasy Alarm – Details on Pierre-Paul’s last NFL action in 2023 season