Buccaneers First-Round Pick Secures Starting Job Week 1 Against Commanders

After weeks of competition, the Bucs rookie center wins the starting job.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers center Graham Barton (62) react after he scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the NFL preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Saturday, August 10, 2024. / Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

After last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a clear motive when it came to improving their offensive line. They wanted to get bigger, stronger, and faster. They accomplished the first step of those desires when they selected Graham Barton in the first round of the NFL Draft.

However, Barton wasn't just handed the job. The former Duke product played his final three seasons at left tackle, so there would be an adjustment period. While he did start several games at center his freshman year, it's a far cry from taking snaps at the position in the NFL. Naturally, there would be competition with the incumbent starter over the last two seasons Robert Hainsey.

Throughout training camp, Barton and Hainsey had been rotating in and out with the first-team offense. This practice continued into the Bucs' first two preseason games. While Hainsey turned in solid performances, it was clear when you watched the tape that in order to accomplish what the Bucs set out to do Barton would be the best choice to take over snapping the ball. Barton didn't look out of place — in fact, he excelled. He generated push in the run game, held up in pass protection, displayed the ability to disengage pass-off blockers and climb to the second level, and most importantly, handled all the calls.

READ MORE: 5 Instant Takeaways From the Buccaneers' Preseason Loss to Jaguars

After the Bucs' preseason loss to the Jags, it became evident that Barton would win the job. Head coach Todd Bowles was asked on Sunday whether he had secured the starting spot.

“They’ve both been taking reps," Bowles said. "I have my own opinions on it. We’re going to meet as a staff this afternoon. We’ll have a decision. It doesn’t have to be made right now, but we’re pretty sure we know where we’re going.”

Per sources, after those discussions took place the Bucs have decided to name Barton as their starting center or the 2024 season.

As expected, #Bucs rookie Graham Barton has won the starting center job, per source.

He’ll now start taking all the 1st team reps to get him prepared for the season & build stronger chemistry with Baker and his linemates. Hainsey will be the backup & get reps at guard.

— JC Allen (@JCAllenNFL) August 19, 2024

With the move, the Bucs accomplished one of their priorities in the offseason and the early returns have shown an improved run game especially when running up the middle. Barton was one of the most athletically gifted interior offensive linemen to come out of the draft but has shown he has the anchor to hold up against the likes of Vita Vea in pass protection and the strength to move them in the run game. With Barton winning the job, Hainsey will slide into the backup role for the season, but he will start to see reps at guard to provide versatility along the offensive line.

Stick with BucsGameday for more FREE coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout training camp.

Follow BucsGameday on Twitter and Facebook

More Tampa Bay Buccaneers News

• Senior NFL Reporter Expects Buccaneers to Repeat as NFC South Champs

• Buccaneers Defensive Position Group Named League's 'Shakiest' by ESPN

• Former Buccaneers Return Man Reaches Injury Settlement With Panthers

• Ex-Buccaneers QB Tom Brady Teasing NFL Return Ahead of Broadcast Career