Key Takeaways:
– The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Tristan Wirfs has abstained from OTAs due to a unresolved contract conflict.
– Wirfs aspires to become the highest-paid offensive tackle in the NFL.
– While the Buccaneers are intently aiming for the NFC Championship, Wirfs’ contract negotiation threatens to impact their performance.
Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s Star Skips OTAs Amidst Contract Clash
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently without Tristan Wirfs, conceivably their top-ranking player who has abstained from Organized Team Activities (OTAs) because of a pending contract renegotiation. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler disclosed the absence of the left offensive tackle from team exercises.
Contract Negotiations Stagnant Amidst Injury Risk Concerns
Wirfs, a multi-year All-Pro, has shown no intention of present or future participation in voluntary workouts without a long-term contract. In his ESPN report, Fowler stated, “The multi-year All-Pro seeks a long-term contract and does not want to risk injury. Sides have not made progress on a new deal.” The 13th overall pick from the 2020 NFL draft by the Buccaneers, Wirfs signed a four-year, $16.2 million contract at that time. The Tampa franchise later activated the fifth-year option, promising Wirfs $18.2 million in 2024.
A Resounding Success Post-Draft Pick
After his 2020 draft selection, Wirfs left a significant mark on his rookie season. The offensive tackle led the Buccaneers to a profound Super Bowl victory and secured a spot in the PFWA All-Rookie Team. He redoubled these achievements with consecutive NFL All-Pro seasons in 2021 and 2022 and successfully made the Pro Bowl in both years, capping his stint with another selection in 2023.
Bid to Be Highest-Paid Offensive Tackle in NFL
Recent contract alterations in NFL have significantly influenced Wirfs and the Buccaneers’ contract negotiations. At the onset of their talks, Laremy Tunsil held a three-year, $75 million contract, making him the highest paid offensive tackle. This had been upturned by a record-breaking four-year, $112 million contract extension with Detroit Lions’ Penei Sewell after the 2023 season, who secured $84 million in guarantees and an annual salary of $28 million, making him the highest paid offensive tackle in NFL history.
Buccaneers Strive for NFC Championship Despite Contract Strife
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have demonstrated their desire to claim the NFC Championship, investing extensively in their 2024 lineup. Despite three consecutive NFC South Division titles and a run to the NFC Divisional Round post-2023 season, anticipated contract negotiations with Wirfs might pose a financial challenge. However, with previous record deals for Antoine Winfield Jr., Mike Evans, Baker Mayfield and Wirfs’ much-anticipated contract, the Buccaneers will likely feel the pressure to perform in 2024 playoffs.