Veteran Pass Rusher Jason Pierre-Paul Makes Stunning NFL Return for Buccaneers

Jason Pierre-Paul is back in the NFL. The veteran defensive end will play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers today against the Carolina Panthers. This ends a two-year absence from the league for the 36-year-old star.

He was elevated from the practice squad for this critical Week 16 game. His return comes at a crucial moment for the playoff-chasing Buccaneers. According to ESPN, his last game in a Tampa Bay uniform was in the 2021 postseason.

JPP Returns to Buccaneers Defense in Playoff Push

The Buccaneers activated Pierre-Paul for their divisional clash. Both Tampa Bay and Carolina are tied with 7-7 records. The winner gains a vital advantage in the tight NFC South race.

Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the move. He cited the player’s immediate grasp of the defensive scheme. Pierre-Paul practiced for just two weeks before this activation.

His experience is a key factor. The Buccaneers need proven pass-rush help for the final stretch. Pierre-Paul provides a known quantity in high-pressure situations.

Legendary Tampa Bay Impact and Historic Absence

Pierre-Paul’s history with the Buccaneers is significant. He recorded 33.0 sacks in 54 regular-season games from 2018 to 2021. This places him tied for tenth on the franchise’s all-time sack list.

His peak was the 2020 Super Bowl LV championship season. He led the team with 9.5 sacks that year. He also added two interceptions and four forced fumbles.

His last NFL regular season snap was in 2023. This makes his current comeback especially notable. Coaches, however, express strong confidence in his readiness and fitness.

Jason Pierre-Paul’s NFL return adds a fascinating chapter to the Buccaneers’ playoff story, bringing legendary experience to a final push for the postseason.

Info at your fingertips

When did Jason Pierre-Paul last play for the Buccaneers?

His last game with Tampa Bay was a playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams on January 23, 2022. He hasn’t played a regular season game for the team since the 2021 season.

Why did the Buccaneers bring Jason Pierre-Paul back?

The team needs veteran pass-rush depth for their playoff run. His familiarity with the defensive system allows for a quick transition, providing immediate help for the defensive line.

How many sacks did JPP have during the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl season?

He was the team’s sack leader in 2020 with 9.5. That production was a cornerstone of the Buccaneers’ defensive success during their championship run.

Is Jason Pierre-Paul expected to start against the Panthers?

He will likely serve in a rotational pass-rush role. The coaching staff will manage his snaps given his recent return to game action after a long break.

What is Jason Pierre-Paul’s career sack total with Tampa Bay?

He accumulated 33.0 sacks during his first stint with the Buccaneers. This was achieved across 54 regular season games from 2018 through 2021.