Tampa Bay has had an eventful offseason with the initial retirement of Tom Brady then unretirement. Then the team had big signings such as Julio Jones, Russell Gage and Kyle Rudolph. Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement for the second time and the team started training camp. The team has also sustained many injuries on the offensive line including to key players. This proves to be a big blow because the offensive line is so important to the offense.
The injuries started when center Ryan Jensen went down during training camp on July 28th with a severe knee injury. He will be out for the season with a small chance of retiring late in the playoffs. Backup center Robert Hainsey was injured in the last preseason game against the Colts and Nick Leverett. Hainsey suffered a left ankle injury and Leverett suffered a shoulder injury. Left tackle Tristan Wires was held out of the last preseason game with an oblique injury and is day to day. Guard Aaron Stinnie is also out for the season with a left knee injury.
Rookies and Newcomers needing to step up
Shaq Mason was added this offseason from the Patriots
The offensive line also had lineman who have either retired or moved on to other teams. Guard Ali Market announced his retirement in February and Guard Alex Cappa was traded to the Bengals. The Bucs now have rookie Luke Goedeke, second year player Nick Leverett, and newcomer Shaq Mason. Mason was traded to the Bucs from the Patriots this offseason.
Hainsey and Leverett should make full recoveries and be ready to go for week one. Wirfs should also be cleared by the first week. The main concern will be keeping Brady healthy and protected. The team has stated they are not worried about the offensive line and should be ready to go week one.
1 Comment
Really well written article. Hopefully the Bucs can have a successful season with a baged up offensive line.