FAU's Sack King Turned NFL Buccaneer Edge Rusher
Leighton McCarthy, the Apopka native who set Wekiva HS single-season sack record with 20, dominated at FAU as LB, ranking 2nd all-time in career sacks (20) and yards lost (via 2020 C-USA leading 9 sacks, 12.5 TFLs), 3rd in QB hurries (18), with 161 tackles in 50 games including two C-USA titles and three bowls[1][2]. His explosive breakout in 2020 (40 tackles, 9 sacks, 1 FF) after DE-to-OLB switch showcased relentless pass-rush intensity and versatility—no major injury flags. Signed UDFA with Tampa Bay Buccaneers post-2021 draft, he's a gritty, production-proven gem for teams needing edge pressure and leadership[2][3][5]. Prime fit for 4-3 defenses chasing sacks.
