Offensive Uncertainty Headlines Buccaneers' Training Camp Storylines
All offseason, the buzz around the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has largely been driven by the offense and the weapons Baker Mayfield has at his disposal.
A stud run game, solid offensive line and pass-catchers who are the envy of the league, the Buccaneers will have no shortage of chances to put up points regularly in 2025.
But there are some questions that have to be answered over the duration of training camp for head coach Todd Bowles and his coaching staff. Who steps in for injured tackle Tristan Wirfs, and how "healthy" will Chris Godwin be?
For ESPN's Jenna Laine, that is the Buccaneers' biggest storyline of the offseason.
"How much will injuries to All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs and Pro Bowl wide receiver Chris Godwin affect quarterback Baker Mayfield?" Laine writes. "The Bucs invested a first-round draft pick in wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, allowing them to be patient with Godwin's rehabilitation.
"But Wirfs' injury creates more uncertainty, as they have a new swing tackle in Charlie Heck after Justin Skule departed in free agency. Training camp should give Mayfield a chance to work through life without two crucial members of the offense."
Godwin's progression from his ankle injury is less of a concern than Wirfs due to the Bucs' other receivers in Mike Evans, Egbuka, Jalen McMillian and tight end Cade Otton.
Left tackle, though, behind Wirfs, doesn't look pretty; however, it does present the opportunity for someone to step up, with Heck expected to be the player to get first crack at the starting job.
The offense is going to be the reason the Buccaneers make the playoffs and go on a deep run, but only if it is a well-oiled machine and with the injury to Wirfs and the uncertain nature of Godwin's return, things might not be as smooth as many think.
But training camp could go a long way in alleviating those fears.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.
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