Buccaneers’ offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs is an enormous man standing at 6’5 and 320 lbs, but running the football is not necessarily his favorite assignment.
That might sound surprising considering his background at Iowa. Wirfs was a dominant college tackle in a program known for emphasizing the running game.
His NFL career has taken him in a different direction. Tampa Bay has generally operated as a pass-heavy offense, giving Wirfs considerably more opportunities to showcase his pass protection.
The Buccaneers ranked among the NFL’s top 10 teams in rushing attempts only once during Wirfs’ career. That came in 2024, while Tampa Bay has finished near the bottom several other times.
“I feel like I’m a much better pass protector than I am a run blocker, just simply because of the fact that we did it twice as much,” Wirfs told the Vikes Verified podcast before the 2023 season.
Wirfs Loves the Technical Side
Wirfs has embraced the opportunity to develop as a pass protector. He views each matchup as an opportunity to learn something new.
“But it’s been really cool to kind of see my pass protection evolve. All these defensive ends have a plan, and you can throw a wrench in their plan with the smallest thing. And it’s cool to figure out those little tricks of the trade almost. I try to be a technician, as much of a technician as I can.”
That development has continued throughout his time in Tampa Bay. Wirfs has also benefited from regularly facing talented pass rushers within the NFC South.
He recently told Sports Seriously that the division has helped him sharpen that part of his game. More challenging matchups are exactly what the Buccaneers’ star tackle wants.
“From my experience, there’s been good edge rushers in this division for a long time now. And as a tackle, like I love that,” Wirfs said. “I love those matchups. Like I want to continue to grow and continue to be a good pass protector. I want to keep getting better and keep improving. So I think since I got drafted, it’s been fun. And it’s a passing league now, that’s what we’re asked to do. I love it. I can’t get enough of it.”
Wirfs Wants More Opportunities To Pass Protect
From the Buccaneers’ perspective, there would certainly be value in running the football more often behind their star tackle.
Still, it’s interesting to hear Wirfs discuss his passion for pass protection. Rather than viewing those responsibilities as a chore, he genuinely enjoys perfecting the craft.
Wirfs has already accomplished plenty during his career. He has a Super Bowl title and All-Pro honors at both right and left tackle.
That success has not satisfied him. Wirfs remains focused on improving, and he clearly enjoys the challenge of becoming an even better pass protector.
Credit to JoeBucsFan for quotes and concept.
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