How does KC Chiefs offensive line rank against other NFL teams?
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The reigning Super Bowl champion is widely viewed as dominant on the defensive side of the ball, but make no mistake, this offensive line was a stifling unit once they gained chemistry. With no offseason workouts or preseason, it would take the Buccaneers multiple weeks to find a rhythm.
After 12 weeks, the Buccaneers were second in the NFC South with a 7-5 record, and many were doubting if Tom Brady was still capable of being a top quarterback in the NFL. However, from week 13 to the end of the season, Tampa Bay’s line would find its footing. Even though it took awhile for the offensive line to mesh, the unit only allowed pressure on 24% of Brady’s dropbacks – fourth lowest in the NFL. It is shocking that teams were only able to manage this amount of pressure on Brady, despite the fact that Arians’ offense is predicated on deep routes.
Tampa Bay’s offensive line consists of solid players like Ryan Jensen, Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet and Alex Cappa, but there was one player who stood out. Rookie Tristan Wirfs was someone who had high potential, but no one expected this much production right out of the gates in year one—especially, since there were no offseason workouts for rookies to get accustomed with their team’s system.
Wirfs was given a PFF grade of 82.2, second highest among right tackles in the NFL. During his rookie season, Wirfs would prove himself against the likes of Cameron Jordan, Joey Bosa, and Khalil Mack, some of the best pass rushers in the league. With Marpet signing an extension through the 2023 season, he and Wirfs will be viewed as the cornerstones of the offensive line for years to come.
Projected Starting Offensive Line:
- LT – Donovan Smith
- LG – Ali Marpet
- C – Ryan Jensen
- RG – Alex Cappa
- RT – Tristan Wirfs