Breaking: Bucs face fierce competition as they close in on deal to sign $67.7 million free agent OL
The Buccaneers could face competition.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the foundation of an excellent offensive line.
Tristan Wirfs and Luke Goedeke comprise one of the league’s greatest tackle combinations, and first-round choice Graham Barton is a day one starter at center.
If there is anywhere they can improve, it is at guard. The Buccaneers signed Ben Bredeson to a one-year contract, but is he ready to play left guard? He is on his third team in five years, having struggled in 16 starts for the New York Giants last season. Bredeson received a 42.1 overall grade from PFF, with 39 pressures, 5 sacks, and 6 penalties allowed.
Playing alongside Wirfs should help, but the Buccaneers should continue to consider their options. Fortunately, an upgrade is available.
Buccaneers should sign free agent offensive lineman Connor Williams
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, free agent Connor Williams is in talks with “multiple teams” ahead of his return from a torn ACL. It’s unclear whether the Buccaneers are among them, but they certainly should be.
The 27-year-old has previous experience at guard and center. He played center for the Miami Dolphins and is coming off a fantastic 2023 season. Prior to the ACL injury, he allowed only six pressures and one sack in 280 pass-blocking snaps, according to PFF.
Despite playing the last two seasons at center, Williams previously played four seasons at left guard for the Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys.
It would present the Buccaneers with a pleasant challenge. Should Williams play guard or centre? He, like Graham Barton, is capable of doing both. Whether Williams plays left guard and Barton plays center, or vice way, the offensive line will improve.
The Buccaneers have a plethora of talented wide receivers, including Baker Mayfield, who recently had a breakout season.
The next stage is to make sure Mayfield gets time in the pocket. Wirfs, Goedeke, and Barton offer the Bucs three consistent starters (albeit Barton has yet to play an NFL snap).
Add Williams to the mix, and the starting five could become one of the league’s best.
