According to multiple reports, Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ outside linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul had to undergo knee surgery this week. The procedure was minor and doesn’t jeopardize Pierre-Paul’s availability for the start of the 2020 NFL season.
The surgery, described as arthroscopic knee procedure, will sideline Pierre-Paul for three to four weeks. The Bucs’ expect the 31-year-old linebacker, who signed a two-year, $27 million contract extension back in March, will be cleared in time for the training camp in late July.
Pierre-Paul dealt with health issues the last offseason as well, hurting his neck in a car accident. Although the injury put him in danger of missing the entire 2019, he surprisingly returned for the second part of the season. He ended up starting eight games and contributed with 8.5 sacks and 30 tackles.
Jason Pierre-Paul started his pro career with the New York Giants, who took him 15th overall back in 2010. After a promising rookie season, Pierre-Paul went on to have two consecutive Pro Bowl appearances in 2011 and 2012, while also helping the Giants win a Super Bowl.
Pierre-Paul’s time in New York also had its downs, as he struggled with injuries and inconsistency in later years. The Giants eventually decided to part ways with him in 2018, sending him to Tampa in exchange for third-round pick and a swap of fourth-round picks.
