Bucs Gameday

Todd Bowles Expects Veteran Buccaneers Offensive Lineman to Return

Bucs' head coach, Todd Bowles, spoke on his veteran's offensive lineman availability for the upcoming game vs. the Arizona Cardinals.

Caleb Skinner

In this story:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers' right tackle, Tristan Wirfs, went down with an injury late in the team's week 12 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. At first, the injury seemed devastating as Wirfs was rolled up on and caused many to believe that he suffered a season-ending knee injury.

However, it was more fortunate news for the Bucs as Wirfs' injury was confirmed as not being as serious as originally thought. Once evaluated, it was shown that Wirfs suffered a high ankle sprain - an injury that takes anywhere from 3-4 weeks to recover.

Since the injury, Wirfs hasn't seen any action in the Bucs' last three games: a win against the Saints followed by two consecutive losses to the 49ers and Bengals. Now, nearing the end of the injury recovery timeline, it appears that Wirfs could have a chance to return to the field this upcoming Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.

READ MORE: Former Buccaneers' Wide Receiver Ends Brief Retirement

Buccaneers' head coach, Todd Bowles, didn't give much into whether Wirfs will indeed play this weekend, but he does sound optimistic that given this week of practice to try and work his way back to playing shape, Wirfs could give it a go this weekend. In Wirfs stead, the Bucs' offensive line hasn't looked like a complete mess, but it hasn't been the most consistent. Wirfs is one of the highest-graded tackles in the league this season and has been since he entered the league. 

Getting Wirfs back would be a welcome sight for the Bucs as they only have three games remaining in the regular season - two of which come against NFC South opponents in order for them to claim the divisional playoff spot.

READ MORE: Frustrations Looming in Bucs Locker Room Following Loss to Bengals

Stick with BucsGameday for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2022 season.

Follow BucsGameday on Twitter and Facebook

Published
Caleb Skinner
CALEB SKINNER

Caleb is from Nashville, TN and graduated from Florida State University in 2018 with majors in Sociology and History. He has previously written for an FSU outlet and started covering the Buccaneers in March of 2022. Caleb is an avid sports fan and former host of the Tribeoholics podcast. You can follow Caleb on Twitter @chsnole