It started out as a side experiment just in case the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ran into more injury problems on their offensive line. It turned into the solution, albeit temporary, for the one big injury concern they already have.
Tristan Wirfs, who made history in 2024 by becoming the first player in NFL history to earn first-team Associated Press All-Pro nods at both left and right tackle, had arthroscopic knee surgery and missed all of preseason and training camp. The Buccaneers did not put him on injured reserve or the PUP list to start the regular season, holding out hope that he would return sooner than Week Five, but Wirfs was never expected to be ready for the season opener. As such, the Buccaneers spent most of August preparing Charlie Heck, signed in the offseason to be the swing tackle, to start at left tackle in Week One against Atlanta.
Somewhere in August, though, the Buccaneers also tested out a contingency plan. In a pinch, could they move second-year player Graham Barton, who started at center in 2024 after being drafted 26th overall, to left tackle? Barton played left tackle for three seasons at Duke but was specifically drafted to play center in the NFL. He obviously knew the technique to play the position, but there are a lot of college left tackles who never play in the big leagues.
Turns out, Barton looked good at the new but familiar spot, especially in regards to his drive-blocking on running plays. That had Head Coach Todd Bowles, Offensive Line Coach Kevin Carberry and Offensive Coordinator Josh Grizzard all giving each other sideways glances but no in-depth conversations about what they were seeing. Finally, Bowles gave voice to what they were all thinking.
"Between me, 'Carbs' and 'Grizz,' we all talked about it and we all saw the same thing, but nobody wanted to say it. So, I was the bad guy to say it, but they were like, 'Yeah, he does. He does look very good out there…This is pretty good.' And then we went with it."
"It" was the move of Barton to left tackle to fill in for Wirfs, with starting left guard Ben Bredeson sliding over to center and late-summer addition Michael Jordan, whose 40 career NFL starts were mostly at left guard, taking over at that spot for Bredeson. The Bucs started working that lineup a couple weeks ago but let the cat out of the bag until about an hour before Sunday's game in Atlanta.
"Well, when we gave [Barton] a couple reps out there, at first it was we were doing it out of emergency," said Bowles. "[We were] like, 'Hey, he looks pretty good out there.' Then Ben looked pretty good at center and then we just started messing with it a little bit. The more we saw it, the more it started coming into focus.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's 23-20 victory against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, September 8th, 2025 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a turnover on downs during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a turnover on downs during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86 and Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Fans before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - An elevated view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Guard Ben Bredeson #68 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Linebacker Deion Jones #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers takes the field before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - NFL Kickoff banner before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, and Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a pass break up during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a turnover on downs during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates his first career touchdown reception with Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates his first career touchdown reception with Defensive Lineman Greg Gaines #96 during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - A Bucs fan during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Rashad Wisdom #38 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers dives for a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers dives for a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a sack during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Offensive Tackle Charlie Heck #77 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - 50th Season patch before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches the game winning touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 The Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate the game winning touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 The Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate the game winning touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Michael Penix Jr. and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates after the game after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 and Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4, Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86 and Punter Riley Dixon #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 and Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Markees Watts #58 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98, Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 and Safety Kaevon Merriweather #26 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 and Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Center Graham Barton #62 and Run Game Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach Kevin Carberry of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Cornerbacks Coach Kevin Ross and Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - General Manager Jason Licht and Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Punter Riley Dixon #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Punter Riley Dixon #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ATLANTA, GA - September 07, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs won the game, 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
"When I first asked [Barton] to do it, I just said in case of emergency, so he took a few reps here and there. Then it got to kind of be kind of an emergency and he started looking better and better and he was firing off the ball in the running game. I was like, 'Hey, we might be more physical with Graham at tackle and Ben at center and with Jordan at guard because he had a good preseason. Nobody really wanted to say it, but it was like, 'Hey, we probably need to do this.' Then it kind of came into fruition."
Bredeson said it didn't take him long to reacclimate himself to the position he played from 2021-23. And, ironically, playing moving to center last year might have actually helped him prepare for playing elsewhere on the line.
"That part is quicker than you think, just because obviously being in the middle, you know what guys have got on both sides," said Barton. "A couple of things here and there, a couple technique things. I'd say the biggest adjustment going back out is just playing in that space, and making sure your technique and fundamentals are right. We have a lot of stuff to work on, a lot of stuff to clean up."
The Bucs wanted to keep their line shuffle out of the headlines as long as possible. Barton said he told some select friends and family it was going to happen because he didn't want his parents finding out on the broadcast and wondering what was happening.
"It was something that they wanted to keep in-house, and we did," he said." Just super happy for our guys, super happy for the way we responded today and super happy with the win."
Obviously, Wirfs will go back to his spot at left tackle when he is cleared to play, which could be as soon as the next couple weeks. It could turn out that the experiment quickly goes back to a "break the glass" emergency solution. But the performance of the line against the Falcons, with the Bucs rushing for 4.4 yards per carry and only allowing one sack, means they can feel comfortable with the new alignment as long as it is necessary.
"We'll see what it is this week," said Bowles. "I thought Graham, for the first time at tackle, played very well. I thought Bredeson did a very good job at center, especially controlling where the blitzes go and the pickups and everything like that. Michael Jordan played well at guard, as well. So, they played tough and they battled. You know, for those guys moving around, playing their first game at different positions, I thought they did a good job. Going forward, we'll see."
