Tristan Wirfs Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Buccaneers vs Rams game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Oct 2, 2025
Full participant Thursday
Wirfs (knee) was a full participant in practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
The starting left tackle was estimated as a limited participant in Wednesday's walkthrough. Wirfs played all 72 offensive snaps in Tampa Bay's 31-25 loss to Philadelphia last week, his season debut. His full participation Thursday strongly indicates that he's on track to play this Sunday as well.
Oct 1, 2025
Limited to open week
Wirfs (knee) was estimated to be a limited participant at the Buccaneers' walkthrough Wednesday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs made his season debut in the team's 31-25 loss to the Eagles in Week 4, playing all 72 offensive snaps at left tackle. The team is likely just being cautious with the 26-year-old, and he'll have two more chances to log a full practice prior to Sunday's contest in Seattle.
Sep 28, 2025
Making season debut Sunday
Wirfs (knee) is listed as active Sunday versus the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs first donned a brace on his right knee while sitting out a minicamp practice in mid-June. He then underwent surgery in early July, with his recovery extending into the regular season. After following an LP/FP/FP practice regimen this week, Wirfs was given a questionable designation for Week 4 action but now has been cleared to retake his starting spot at left tackle.
Sep 27, 2025
Trending towards playing Week 4
Wirfs (knee) is expected to make his 2025 debut against the Eagles on Sunday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs ended the week with back-to-back full practices and is on track to play Sunday. The 2020 first-rounder missed all of training camp and the first three games of the regular season after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in early July. Graham Barton would likely revert to a reserve role on the Bucs' offensive line if Wirfs is cleared to play.
Sep 26, 2025
Could return Sunday
Head coach Todd Bowles told reporters Friday that Wirfs (knee) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against the Eagles, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
The 2020 first-round pick from Iowa hasn't played since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in early July, but his full practice Thursday suggests a Week 4 return may be on the horizon. However, if Wirfs remains sidelined Sunday, 2024 first-round pick Graham Barton is expected to slide over to left tackle and make his fifth consecutive start in that position.
Sep 25, 2025
Full practice Thursday
Wirfs (knee) was a full participant at practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs appears to be on the cusp of making his return to action after having knee surgery in early July, building off of Wednesday's limited session to practice in full Thursday. The offensive lineman's status for Sunday's contest against the Eagles will be much clearer once Tampa Bay releases its final injury report Friday.
Sep 24, 2025
Opens week with limited practice
Wirfs (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs is in the final stages of his recovery from arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in early July. He would put himself in a position to make his 2025 debut against the Eagles on Sunday if he were to practice in at least a limited capacity over the next two days. Graham Barton would be in line for a fourth-straight start at left tackle if Wirfs is not cleared to play.
Sep 20, 2025
Targeting Week 4 return
Wirfs (knee) has a strong chance to return in Week 4 against the Eagles, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs appeared to be trending in this direction after practicing in limited fashion throughout the last week. He is expected to take reps with the starters ahead of Week 4, and he planning to make his 2025 debut so long as those reps go well.
Sep 19, 2025
Out for Week 3
Wirfs (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs will miss his third straight game to open the season, but he was able to get in some limited work during practice this week and appears to be nearing a return, one which the Bucs badly need after their offensive line has been wrecked by injuries two games into the year.
Sep 17, 2025
Logs another limited practice
Wirfs (knee) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Like he was able to at the end of last week before sitting out Week 2, Wirfs managed to practice in a limited capacity to start Tampa Bay's new week of preparation. He'll still be looking at carrying an injury designation into the weekend unless he can manage a full practice Thursday or Friday.
Sep 13, 2025
Won't play Monday
Wirfs (knee) has been ruled out for Monday's game versus the Texans, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs will miss a second consecutive game due to his recovery from July arthroscopic right knee surgery. It's encouraging that he returned to the practice field in a limited fashion Thursday, and his next chance to play is Week 3 versus the Jets.
Sep 11, 2025
Limited in return to practice
Wirfs (knee) was limited in practice Thursday, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs participated in individual drills Thursday, per Greg Auman of Fox Sports. Auman also reports that Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said Wirfs hasn't been ruled out for Monday's road matchup against the Texans, but that the firm return goal set by the team remains Week 5. Graham Barton moved over from center to left tackle to fill in for Wirfs in Week 1.
Sep 5, 2025
Won't play in Week 1
Head coach Todd Bowles told reporters Friday that Wirfs (knee) won't play in Sunday's matchup against the Falcons, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The star left tackle is still recovering from arthroscopic right knee surgery and was expected to miss the first handful of games this season, so Bowles' comments Friday come as no surprise. Charlie Heck is expected to step in and start at left tackle while Wirfs remains sidelined.
Sep 3, 2025
Misses practice Wednesday
Wirfs (knee) did not participate at the Buccaneers' practice Wednesday, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs is expected to miss the first few games of the season while he continues to recover from arthroscopic right knee surgery, so his absence Wednesday isn't a major surprise. Charlie Heck will likely draw the start at left tackle in Sunday's regular-season opener against the Falcons.
Aug 26, 2025
Activated from PUP list
Wirfs (knee) passed a physical and was activated from the active/PUP list Tuesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs spent the entirety of training camp on the sidelines after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in early July. He will now be able to return to practice, but he remains unlikely to play in the Buccaneers' first handful of games in 2025. In his absence, Charlie Heck and Luke Goedeke are candidates to open the season as Tampa Bay's starting left tackle.
Aug 21, 2025
Likely to miss games
Wirfs (knee) is expected to start the regular season on Tampa Bay's 53-man roster so he can participate in practice but likely won't play until October, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
The Buccaneers are expected to utilize a similar approach with both Wirfs and wide receiver Chris Godwin. Wirfs is currently on the active/PUP list. If Wirfs is sidelined for all of September, he would miss the first four games of the regular season. The Buccaneers could start backup Charlie Heck at left tackle during Wirfs' absence or slide Luke Goedeke over from right tackle to protect Baker Mayfield's blind side.
Aug 6, 2025
Doing 'excellent job' in recovery
Wirfs, who had an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee in July, was down to utilizing just one crutch Tuesday and is coming along well in his recovery, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Bucs general manager Jason Licht sounded an optimistic tone about the star left tackle Tuesday, saying Wirfs was doing "an excellent job" in his recovery process. However, the Bucs are naturally proceeding with caution, with Licht adding the caveat the team needs to be careful to not rush the All-Pro's return to football activities. Wirfs has previously been projected to miss the start of the regular season but not necessarily profile as a candidate for the reserve/PUP list.
Jul 22, 2025
Placed on active/PUP list
Tampa Bay placed Wirfs (knee) on the active/PUP list Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs underwent surgery on his right knee earlier this month and is expected to miss the beginning of the regular season, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports. There's a chance Wirfs will open the regular season on the reserve/PUP list, which would cost him at least the first four games of the year, but coach Todd Bowles recently told JoeBucsFan.com that Wirfs will be "ready sooner than later."
Jul 22, 2025
Expected back early in season?
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles recently told joebucsfan.com that Wirfs (knee) "will be ready sooner than later" but not necessarily for Week 1.
ANALYSIS
"I don't know if it's Week 1, 2, 3," Bowles said. Wirfs had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee July 8, with Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reporting at the time that the star left tackle likely would miss "at least the first couple games" of the regular season. Bowles' comments sound like he expects Wirfs back at some point in September or maybe October, which should be manageable for a team that otherwise returns all of last year's starters on an offensive line that was among the best in the league.
Jul 9, 2025
Expected to miss start of season
Wirfs underwent surgery on his right knee Tuesday and is expected to miss the start of the regular season, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs dealt with the knee issue last season but missed just one regular-season contest. However, he aggravated the injury this offseason and was spotted wearing a brace during minicamp. The Bucs scheduled a knee scope for Wirfs on Tuesday, but additional minor damage was found during the procedure, according to Stroud, who also notes that Wirfs will likely begin the season on the reserve/PUP list. That would cost Wirfs at least the first four games of the campaign. Charlie Heck is expected to be the next man up at left tackle for Tampa Bay. Losing Wirfs is a big blow to the entire offense, as he's a road-grader in the running game and protects Baker Mayfield's blind side in passing situations.
Jun 10, 2025
Sidelined at minicamp
Wirfs (knee) was held out of Tampa Bay's minicamp session Tuesday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was spotted wearing a brace on right knee, but head coach Todd Bowles said his absence was just precautionary. Wirfs is expected to be health in time for training camp where he will return to his role as the team's starting left tackle.
Dec 1, 2024
Active Sunday
Wirfs (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The starting left tackle was questionable coming into Sunday after spraining his MCL in Week 10 against the 49ers and missing the Bucs' Week 12 win over the Giants. Wirfs was also a limited participant in practice throughout the week leading up to this game. The fifth-year pro, who signed a five-year, $140.63-million extension in August, has started all 10 games he's played in this season and all 81 that he's played in over the course of his career.
Nov 29, 2024
Iffy for Week 13
Wirfs (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs sprained his MCL in Week 10 against the 49ers, and even with the Week 11 bye, he was unable to play in Week 12 against the Giants. Wirfs was a limited practice participant all week, and he has a chance to reclaim his starting spot at left tackle Sunday. If Wirfs is unable to play, Justin Skule would be in line to start at left tackle for a second straight game.
Nov 24, 2024
Inactive for Week 12
Wirfs (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs sprained his MCL during the Buccaneers' Week 10 loss to the 49ers. He was initially listed as questionable for Sunday's game after practicing in a limited capacity all week, but he hasn't progressed through his rehab enough to play. Wirfs' next opportunity to suit up will be Week 13 against the Panthers on Sunday, Dec. 1. Justin Skule is the top candidate to start at left tackle due to Wirfs being sidelined.
Nov 23, 2024
Now doubtful for Week 12
The Bucs downgraded Wirfs (knee) to doubtful for Sunday's game against the Giants, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs is recovering from a sprained MCL, which he suffered in the Bucs' pre-bye Week 10 loss to San Francisco. He was initially listed as questionable on Friday's injury report. Justin Skule figures to be the next man up at left tackle if Wirfs misses Sunday's contest.
Nov 22, 2024
Questionable for Sunday
Wirfs (knee/foot) is listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Giants, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 25-year-old offensive lineman sprained his right MCL in Tampa Bay's Week 10 loss to the 49ers and practiced in a limited fashion throughout the week. If Wirfs is unable to suit up for the Week 12 matchup, expect Justin Skule to protect Baker Mayfield's blindside.
Nov 20, 2024
Limited to open week
Wirfs (knee/foot) was limited in practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs sprained his right MCL during Tampa Bay's Week 10 loss to San Francisco. The 2020 first-round pick took advantage of the Bucs' Week 11 bye to get additional rest and rehab on his knee, and he was able to participate in Wednesday's practice. Wirfs will have two more chances this week to increase his practice participation ahead of Sunday's game against the Giants.
Nov 11, 2024
Will be week-to-week after bye
Coach Todd Bowles said Monday that Wirfs (knee) will be week-to-week after the Buccaneers' bye in Week 11, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs underwent an MRI to examine the knee injury he sustained during Sunday's game versus the 49ers, but it fortunately returned as nothing more than a low-grade MCL sprain. If he does miss any game action as he recovers, Justin Skule would likely step into a starting role at one of Tampa Bay's tackle spots.
Nov 11, 2024
Tending to sprained MCL
Wirfs was diagnosed with an MCL sprain following Sunday's game versus the 49ers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
It's a positive development for Wirfs, who may have had to miss the rest of the season if he'd instead torn his MCL in Week 10. He's not expected to miss more than a couple of games as he recovers, during which time Justin Skule would figure to step into a starting role on the Buccaneers' offensive line.
Nov 10, 2024
Dealing with possible MCL injury
Wirfs potentially suffered an injury to his MCL on Sunday, and he'll have an MRI to determine the extent of the issue, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs has been ruled out from returning to Sunday's matchup against San Francisco, and his initial diagnosis suggests he could miss additional time. However, Rapoport notes that if the MCL injury is confirmed, it would mean that the All-Pro offensive tackle has a "likelihood" of returning this season. That could be huge for a Tampa Bay squad that still has playoff aspirations.
Nov 10, 2024
Won't return vs. San Francisco
Wirfs (knee) has been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's game against the 49ers, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was immediately taken back to the locker room after suffering a knee injury in the first half. With Wirfs sidelined for the rest of Sunday's game, Justin Skule will remain at left tackle.
Nov 10, 2024
Suffers knee injury
Wirfs is questionable to return after suffering a knee injury during Tampa Bay's matchup versus the Saints on Sunday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs went down in the first half with a knee injury and was immediately taken to the locker room. The injury looks like it could be significant, and Justin Skule has now replaced Wirfs at left tackle.
Aug 1, 2024
Inks lavish long-term deal
Wirfs and the Buccaneers agreed Thursday on a five-year, $140.63 million contract extension, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs' extension includes $88.24 million guaranteed, the most for an offensive tackle in NFL history. The 25-year-old has certainly proven to be one of the league's top left tackles over his first four NFL seasons, earning three Pro Bowl nods as well as first- and second-team All-Pro selections in 2021 and 2022. Wirfs had been set to play the 2024 season under the $18.24 million fifth-year option on his rookie deal, but the long-term deal now keeps him on Tampa Bay's books through the 2029 campaign.
Jul 30, 2024
No padded drills Monday
Wirfs, who is seeking a contract extension, did not participate in padded 11-on-11 drills during Monday's training camp practice so as not to risk injury, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The star tackle and head coach Todd Bowles had discussed the matter before the start of practice and mutually agreed it was in Wirfs' best interest to not participate in the session with a deal reportedly close. In Bowles' view, Wirfs' presence in individual drills demonstrates good faith and keeps him mentally involved, and the 2020 first-round pick also fully participated in each of Tampa Bay's first four (non-padded) practices of camp prior to Monday.
Jul 30, 2024
No padded drills Monday
Wirfs, who is seeking a contract extension, did not participate in padded 11-on-11 drills during Monday's training camp practice so as not to risk injury, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The star tackle and head coach Todd Bowles had discussed the matter before the start of practice and mutually agreed it was in Wirfs' best interest to not participate in the session with a deal reportedly close. In Bowles' view, Wirfs' participation in individual drills demonstrates good faith and keeps him mentally involved, and the 2020 first-round pick also fully participated in each of Tampa Bay's first four (non-padded) practices of camp prior to Monday.
Jul 24, 2024
Practicing at training camp
Wirfs attended the first day of Buccaneers training camp Wednesday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs skipped OTAs while trying to work out a contract extension, though he was present for the start of minicamp in June. The 2020 first-round pick out of Iowa is under the fifth-year option of his rookie deal, which is worth $18.2 million. Vikings left tackle Christian Darrisaw signed a four-year, $113 million contract extension Tuesday, per Adam Schefter of ESPN, which could serve as a benchmark for Wirfs as his side continues to negotiate on an extension with the Tampa Bay front office.
Jun 11, 2024
Attending minicamp
Wirfs is present Tuesday for the start of June minicamp, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
His presence for the first mandatory practices of the offseason suggests Wirfs isn't holding out, although he could still change his mind before training camp if he doesn't have a long-term contract by then. He's scheduled to play out 2024 under the fifth-year option on his rookie contract for $18.2 million, which is well south of the average annual value he figures to eventually get on a multi-year deal. Lions RT Penei Sewell signed a four-year, $112 million extension earlier this offseason, with $85 million in guarantees and $43 million guaranteed at signing. Wirfs likely expects a similar contract and could even make a case for being paid more than Sewell.
May 21, 2024
Skipping OTAs, awaits new contract
Wirfs is not present Tuesday at OTAs and does not plan to return to team facilities 'in the immediate future,' Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs reportedly doesn't want to risk suffering an injury before signing a multi-year contract with the Buccaneers, as he's currently slated to play out the 2024 campaign on the fifth-year option in his rookie contract. That would provide Wirfs a fully guaranteed salary north of $18.2 million, but the three-time Pro Bowler is prioritizing long-term security. Tampa Bay has, however, already committed a multiple sum this offseason to re-signing Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans and Antoine Winfield.
Jan 5, 2024
Good to go for key Week 18 game
Wirfs (shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation heading into Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
This is a big contest for the Buccaneers, as they can clinch the NFC South with a win over Carolina. As such, it's no surprise that Wirfs is pushing through a shoulder injury that kept him out of practice Wednesday. The talented tackle hasn't missed a contest this season.
Jan 3, 2024
Nursing shoulder injury
Wirfs (shoulder) did not participate at practice Wednesday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
ANALYSIS
It's unclear when Wirfs picked up the shoulder issue, but his availability for Week 18 is now in doubt regardless. He'll likely have to practice Thursday or Friday to give himself a chance to suit up Sunday.
Jul 29, 2023
Adjusting well to new position
Wirfs' acclimation to his new position of left tackle is going smoothly thus far in training camp, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports. "He's adjusted well over there, I think," head coach Todd Bowles said. "There's probably still some kinks he needs to work out, probably when we get in pads, from a hand-placement standpoint, but I think he's done an excellent job so far."
ANALYSIS
The 2020 first-round pick has already proven a success at right tackle over his first three seasons, earning two Pro Bowl selections and one All-Pro nod. He's now moving over to the opposite end of the line to replace the departed Donovan Smith and provide valuable blindside protection for either Baker Mayfield or Kyle Trask this coming season, and although the Buccaneers have yet to don pads, Wirfs is displaying impressive technique thus far in drills.
May 2, 2023
Will work at LT this spring
Wirfs could be the starting left tackle in 2023, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times also reported Monday that Wirfs would be making the switch to left tackle after the Bucs failed to address the spot during the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud mentioned Luke Goedeke as an option to replace Wirfs at right tackle if the the two-time Pro Bowler did make the position change. However, general manager Jason Licht said in a radio interview Tuesday that the decision to move Wirfs is not "etched in stone," so for now, it appears he will simply be working on both sides of the line during offseason workouts.
May 2, 2023
Will work at LT this spring
Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht indicted this offseason that Wirfs could be the starting left tackle in 2023, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reported Monday that Wirfs would be making the switch to left tackle after the Bucs failed to address the spot during the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud mentioned Luke Goedeke as an option to replace Wirfs at right tackle if the the two-time Pro Bowler did make the position change. However, Licht said in a radio interview Tuesday that the decision to move Wirfs is not "etched in stone," so for now, it appears Wirfs will simply be working on both sides of the line during offseason workouts.
Apr 24, 2023
Receives fifth-year option
The Buccaneers picked up Wirfs' fifth-year option Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs' fifth-year option was picked up ahead of the May 1 deadline, and the 24-year-old will now be locked in with Tampa Bay through the 2024 season. The 2020 first-round pick should continue to serve as an anchor for the Buccaneers' offensive line and is now in line for a big payday when this contract is up.
Dec 30, 2022
Good to go Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) does not carry an injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Panthers, per the team's official site.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs returned from a three-game absence this past weekend as a result of a previous ankle issue, but he apparently re-aggravated his injured ankle Sunday night versus the Cardinals. After opening Week 17 prep with two consecutive limited practices, the 320-pounder returned to Friday's session fully, ultimately allowing him to continue starting at right tackle come New Year's Day.
Dec 26, 2022
Suffers reaggravation Sunday
Head coach Todd Bowles said Monday that Wirfs re-aggravated his ankle injury in Sunday's 19-16 win over the Cardinals, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs had missed each of Tampa Bay's previous three games as a result of an ankle issue, but it now sounds as if the 320-pounder didn't make it out of Sunday's contest unscathed despite playing every offensive snap. More clarification regarding the significance of Wirfs' injured ankle should be provided after he undergoes further testing Monday afternoon.
Dec 25, 2022
Suiting up Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs missed the last three games due to an ankle injury but practiced fully Friday and has been cleared to suit up Sunday night. He'll likely reclaim his starting role on the Broncos' offensive line.
Dec 23, 2022
Officially questionable
Wirfs (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against Arizona.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs has missed three straight games due to an ankle injury, but he logged a full practice Friday for the first time since suffering the injury, which suggests he's on track to return in Week 16. His potential presence would be a huge boost to Tampa Bay's offensive line, especially considering his replacement, Josh Wells (back), is also questionable and Donovan Smith (foot) is out.
Dec 18, 2022
Isn't suiting up Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs will now miss a third straight game as a result of the ankle injury he sustained Week 12 in Cleveland. Josh Wells should draw another start at right tackle this weekend versus Cincinnati.
Dec 16, 2022
Officially quesitonable
Wirfs (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Coach Todd Bowles said earlier in the week that he didn't expect Wirfs to be able to return from a two-game absence. However, Wirfs closed the week with two limited practices, giving him at least some potential to return Sunday against the Bengals. Josh Wells has been starting at right tackle In Wirfs' absence.
Dec 14, 2022
Not expected to play Sunday
Coach Todd Bowles said Wednesday that he doesn't think Wirfs (ankle) will be ready to play in Sunday's matchup against Cincinnati, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs has already missed back-to-back games due to the ankle issue and is in danger of missing a third. If he remains sidelined, Josh Wells figures to draw another start at right tackle.
Dec 11, 2022
Sitting out Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) has been deemed inactive ahead of Sunday's game against the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs will officially miss his second game in a row after being carted off with an ankle injury against Cleveland in Week 12. His next opportunity to suit up will come versus the Bengals on Sunday, Dec. 18. With Wirfs still out, expect Josh Wells to once again start Week 14.
Dec 9, 2022
Week 14 return unlikely
Wirfs (ankle) is doubtful for Sunday's game against the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs suffered a serious injury in Week 12 and was projected to miss 3-to-4 weeks at the time. He failed to practice in any capacity ahead of Tampa Bay's Week 14 matchup against San Francisco and is unlikely to suit up.
Nov 28, 2022
Avoids season-ending injury
Wirfs (ankle) is expected to miss 3-to-4 weeks after exiting Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Browns early, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
In a positive turn of events, Wirfs appears to be on track to return to the field at some point later this season after going down with what appeared to be a significant injury in Week 12. His current projection of 3-to-4 weeks puts him on track to be available close to Week 16, which would allow him to get his feet back under him ahead of a potential playoff run. In his absence, Josh Wells will likely take over at starting right tackle.
Nov 27, 2022
May have avoided serious injury
X-ray examinations did not reveal any significant injury after Wirfs (foot) was carted off during Sunday's overtime loss to Cleveland, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs did not suffer any broken bones in his injured left leg and will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of his ankle issue, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic. However, the overall nature of this leg injury is still unclear, so it will be worth closely monitoring the 23-year-old's status heading into Tampa Bay's Week 13 contest against the Saints on Monday Night Football.
Nov 27, 2022
Carted off late in OT loss
Wirfs was carted off after he suffered a left leg injury during Sunday's 23-17 overtime loss to the Browns, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
While the nature of this issue is still unclear, the 2021 All-Pro could now be in jeopardy of missing the first game of his career against the Saints on Monday, Dec. 5. If so, Josh Wells, who stepped in after Wirfs went down in overtime, would likely step in at right tackle for Tampa Bay.
Sep 18, 2022
Cleared to play Sunday
Wirfs (abdomen) is active for Sunday's game against the Saints.
ANALYSIS
The abdominal injury limited Wirfs' activity in practices all week, but he'll be able to suit up Sunday and handle his usual duties at the Buccaneers' right tackle. The Bucs will be breaking in a new left tackle Week 2, however, as Josh Wells steps in to protect Tom Brady's blind side while Donovan Smith (elbow) is sidelined.
Sep 18, 2022
Should play Week 2
Wirfs (abdomen), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints, is expected to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The star right tackle was a limited participant in practice all week, but he looks like he'll be cleared to play in advance of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. The fact that Wirfs is likely to suit up looms even larger than normal with left tackle Donovan Smith (elbow) listed as doubtful and not expected to suit up.
Sep 17, 2022
Questionable Week 2
Wirfs (abdomen) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was a limited participant at practice this week, and his availability for Sunday's contest remains up in the air.
Sep 8, 2022
Practices in full Thursday
Wirfs (oblique) was a full participant during the Buccaneers' practice Thursday, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs returned in full after he was listed as a limited participant on Tampa Bay's injury report Wednesday. The 23-year-old All-Pro has been dealing with an oblique issue that sidelined him during the team's practices in late August. Wirfs' availability would go a long way toward shoring up the Buccaneers' depleted offensive line during Sunday's season-opener against what should be a dangerous Cowboys' pass-rushing unit.
Aug 25, 2022
On schedule for Week 1
Wirfs (oblique) remains out of practice, but head coach Todd Bowles is confident the star tackle will be ready to play in Week 1 against the Cowboys, Joey Knight of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Bowles noted after Tuesday's practice that Wirfs remains on schedule in his recovery, supporting the notion he'll be ready to suit up with the opener versus Dallas still more than two weeks away. The 2020 first-round pick's presence for that game would naturally be a welcome sight under any circumstance, but even more so with Ryan Jensen (knee) and Aaron Stinnie (knee) sidelined.
Aug 21, 2022
Short-term absence
Wirfs (oblique) is considered day to day, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs' prognosis is a good one with the recent news of Aaron Stinnie (knee) being placed on IR, and Ryan Jensen (knee) out for at least a couple of months. The 2020 first-round selection should start at right tackle, as long as he remains healthy.
Aug 18, 2022
Injures oblique in practice
Wirfs sustained an oblique injury during joint workouts with the Titans on Thursday, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs has been plagued with injuries as of late as the right tackle was forced to miss time in August with cramps. The 23-year-old seemed to strain his oblique causing the linemen to be sidelined for the remainder of Thursday's joint practice. There is no indication of how long Wirfs will be held out.
Aug 2, 2022
Dealing with cramps during practice
Wirfs (ankle) was limited in practice due to cramps, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs' season ended early due to an ankle injury, but he appears to be fully recovered from it. However, the offensive lineman did experience cramps in practice, but he should not miss anytime moving forward.
Apr 15, 2022
Recovery going well
Wirfs (ankle) said Friday that his recovery has been going well.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was expected to require surgery to repair a significant high-ankle sprain during the offseason, but he ultimately didn't undergo a procedure and is progressing well. He's been working out and is expected to be back to full health in time for training camp.
Jan 31, 2022
Could avoid surgery
Wirfs (ankle) could avoid offseason surgery, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was initially expected to require surgery to repair an ankle injury that he sustained during the Buccaneers' wild-card win over the Eagles, but he'll test out other treatment options before undergoing a procedure. The 23-year-old will wear a boot for about a month and receive PRP treatments in an attempt to recover without surgery. Regardless of whether the right tackle ultimately undergoes surgery, he's expected to be ready for the start of training camp.
Jan 23, 2022
Requires surgery
Wirfs will require surgery to repair his significant high-ankle sprain, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was unavailable for Sunday's divisional-round loss to the Rams and is dealing with a pair or torn ligaments. He'll face a lengthy recovery process following his procedure, and it's not yet clear when he'll be cleared to return to the field.
Jan 23, 2022
Inactive for divisional round
Wirfs (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's divisional matchup with the Rams, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs sustained a high-ankle sprain in last week's wild-card win over the Eagles and, despite doing everything in his power to be cleared, won't be available against Los Angeles. In his absence, Josh Wells is expected to draw the start at right tackle.
Jan 22, 2022
Likely game-time decision
Wirfs (ankle) is expected to be a game-time decision for Sunday's divisional-round matchup against the Rams, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs sustained a high-ankle sprain in last week's wild-card win over the Eagles, and he's been receiving constant treatment in hopes that he'll be able to play through the injury in the divisional round. The 22-year-old is officially questionable after practicing in a limited capacity Friday, but Josh Wells will likely draw the start against the Rams if Wirfs is unavailable.
Jan 21, 2022
May play Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional matchup with the Rams, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was forced to leave Tampa Bay's wild-card win over the Eagles after suffering a sprained ankle. He logged just one limited practice (Friday) this week, so despite the questionable tag, his status for Sunday is very much in doubt. If the 22-year-old is unavailable, Josh Wells will likely draw the start at right tackle.
Jan 17, 2022
Chance to play Sunday
Coach Bruce Arians said Monday that Wirfs (ankle) is in a walking boot but has a chance to play in Sunday's divisional matchup, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs was diagnosed with a sprained ankle following Sunday's wild-card win over the Eagles. The right tackle will have his progress monitored in practice and could be a game-time decision for the divisional round. If the 22-year-old is unavailable, Josh Wells could take on a starting role.
Jan 16, 2022
Suffered sprained ankle Sunday
Coach Bruce Arians said after Sunday's win over the Eagles that Wirfs suffered a sprained ankle, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
When asked how serious Wirfs' injury was, Arians said we'll have to "wait and see." Wirfs pleaded with trainers to left him back in the game after initially suffering the injury, but that didn't go well as he sported a noticeable limp during his only series and was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game. The All Pro right tackle's practice statuses this week should give a better indication as to whether or not he will be available for the NFC divisional round.
Jan 16, 2022
Ruled out for remainder of game
Wirfs (ankle) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's contest against the Eagles, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs left the game in the first quarter and was able to convince trainers to let him back into the game. However, the All Pro right tackle was sporting a noticeable limp and struggled during his only series. Josh Wells will be tasked with replacing Wirfs for the rest of the contest.
Jan 16, 2022
Returns to Sunday's contest
Wirfs (ankle) has returned to Sunday's wild-card matchup against the Eagles, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs left the game in the first quarter, but after pleading with trainers, he returned to the game late in the second quarter. However, the first-team All Pro is sporting a noticeable limp and gave up a pressure -- something he rarely does -- during his first drive back.
Jan 16, 2022
Questionable to return Sunday
Wirfs (ankle) is questionable to return Sunday against the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Wirfs left the wild-card matchup in the first quarter after appearing to roll his ankle. The 2020 first-round pick was just recently named as a first-team All-Pro, so his potential absence would be a huge blow to Tampa Bay's offense. Josh Wells has replaced Wirfs at right tackle for the time being.
Aug 17, 2020
Some growing pains early
Although he's impressed with his athleticism in early practices, Wirfs had some struggles in Monday's first padded session of camp while lining up with the first-team offense, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Carmen Vitali of the team's official site previously reported the heralded rookie first-round pick had looked every bit the part in Friday's practice while moving around particularly well in run blocking, but that was a non-padded, non-contact session. Stroud notes coach Bruce Arians remarked after Monday's practice that Wirfs needed to get his pad level down after just standing straight up in last week's non-contact sessions, something which the talented Iowa product should be able to implement in short order. Wirfs won't have the benefit of preseason games to prepare for the starting right tackle job, but he'll nevertheless receive a formidable on-field tutorial while facing the Buccaneers' array of talented pass rushers.
May 15, 2020
High expectations for rookie season
Wirfs is considered to have the versatility and athleticism to be an immediate starter at right tackle, Luke Easterling of SI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Considered by multiple analysts to be the best raw athlete of a deep 2020 tackle class, Wirfs could be set as a foundational piece on the Buccaneers offensive line for the next decade-plus. The Iowa product is considered to be equally proficient in his run blocking and pass protection, and Easterling notes the consensus seems to be Wirfs could have been a top-five pick based on his talent and track record. With veteran tackle Demar Dotson (hamstring) not re-signed this offseason, Wirfs should be able to slide into a starting role if he holds his own in training camp and preseason.