Buccaneers' Wirfs has knee surgery, could miss start of the season, AP source says

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs had surgery on his right knee on Tuesday and is expected to start the season on the sideline, a person with knowledge of his injury told The Associated Press.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the team hasn’t released his status. The Tampa Bay Times was first to report that Wirfs had surgery.

Wirfs, who strained his right MCL last November, was held out of minicamp last month.

Wirfs, who protects Baker Mayfield’s blind side, is the anchor of an offensive line that helped Tampa Bay finish fourth in rushing last season.

Wirfs is the first player selected an All-Pro at both tackle spots.

Before 2016, the All-Pro roster included two tackles but didn’t differentiate between right or left side. Wirfs made it at right tackle in 2021. He switched positions in 2023.

The four-time defending NFC South champion Buccaneers open the regular season at Atlanta on Sept. 7.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl