The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be getting one of the most important pieces of their offense back just in time for the regular-season opener.
Head coach Todd Bowles said Tristan Wirfs got some work in at practice this week and continues to make progress as he works his way back.
"He got a few reps in yesterday. He's definitely getting better, and he's on the mend. I think with another week, he should be ready to go," Bowles said via Buccaneers.com.
That timeline would put Wirfs in position to return for Week 1, which would be a major boost for an offensive line that looks much different when its All-Pro left tackle is on the field.
Bowles made that clear when asked how much Wirfs changes what the Buccaneers can do offensively.
"Definitely. It makes
a difference. I mean, when he's your leader on the offensive line, and he's your best player on the offensive line, it definitely makes a difference."
Getting Wirfs back would stabilize the left side of the line and give Baker Mayfield one of his most important protectors as Tampa Bay prepares to open the season.
The Bucs still have time before Week 1, but Bowles' update suggests Wirfs is trending in the right direction.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs could have Tristan Wirfs back in time for Week 1
