Tampa Bay Buccaneers hit with major injuries in July 2025. All-Pro Tristan Wirfs (PUP list) and a rookie are out, raising questions about the O-line.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The optimism of training camp was dealt a harsh dose of reality on Wednesday, as devastating injury news rocked the Buccaneers. The team is now bracing to start the season without its cornerstone left tackle, Tristan Wirfs, who is expected to land on the PUP list. The blow was compounded by the season-ending loss of a promising rookie, casting a shadow over the early days of camp and raising serious questions about the team's fortitude heading into the 2025 campaign.
He is 'light-years ahead' of where we thought he'd be.
The biggest blow came with the confirmation that All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs will likely begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list after undergoing knee surgery. This is a seismic hit to the offensive line, removing Baker Mayfield's blindside protector for what sources project could be the first four games, with a target return around Week 5. The team has yet to name a replacement, creating a massive question mark at the most critical position on the line. Protecting Mayfield just became the team's number one priority, and their solution will be a major storyline throughout the preseason.
As if the Wirfs news wasn't enough, the Bucs' promising draft class took a major hit. Fourth-round pick David Walker, an EDGE rusher who was turning heads, will miss his entire rookie season after tearing his ACL in practice. Walker was expected to be a key part of the pass rush rotation, and his absence leaves a significant gap in depth. It's a heartbreaking development for the young player and a frustrating setback for a defense counting on its rookies to contribute immediately.
Amidst the gloom, a different fourth-round pick is providing a much-needed spark. Offensive Coordinator Josh Grizzard showered praise on rookie running back Bucky Irving, noting the Oregon product is 'light-years ahead' in his development. Irving has reportedly dazzled with his vision, decisiveness, and surprising prowess in the passing game. In a backfield looking for a dynamic playmaker, Irving's rapid ascent is the best news to come out of camp so far.
While the injury report grows, the team's veteran leaders are still making plays. Mike Evans, entering another season with his 1,000-yard streak on the line, made a spectacular highlight-reel catch from Baker Mayfield in practice. The chemistry between the QB-WR duo looks as strong as ever. Evans told reporters he's eager to 'put on a show' this year, a welcome sign of confidence for a team that desperately needs its stars to carry the load.
The injury list doesn't stop with Wirfs and Walker. Tight end Cade Otton (hamstring) and rookie cornerback Benjamin Morrison (hip) are both questionable for the season opener. They join QB Michael Pratt (back) and WR Chris Godwin (ankle) on the mend, though that pair is expected to return from the PUP list by Week 2. The sheer volume of injuries to key contributors is a major concern as the team tries to build cohesion for Week 1.
The 'next man up' mentality will be tested early and often in Tampa Bay this season. With the offensive line in flux and key players on both sides of the ball nursing injuries, the Bucs' depth and resilience are under the microscope. The challenge is immense, but the flashes from veterans like Evans and rookies like Irving offer a crucial reminder that talent and determination still burn bright in this locker room. All eyes will be on who steps up to fill these massive voids as Week 1 approaches.
