Tristan Wirfs should be anchoring the Bucs offensive line, bracing against edge rushers and keeping the pocket clean for Baker Mayfield. Instead, the All-Pro tackle hobbled across the practice field Thursday morning with a single crutch under his left arm and a heavy brace on his surgically-repaired right knee.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers left tackle Tristan Wirfs underwent surgery earlier this month that could knock him out to start the season. Coach Todd Bowles, however, offered a more optimistic timeline for the star's return.

Buccaneers left tackle Tristan Wirfs underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee earlier this month. Wirfs could miss the start of the season, but coach Todd Bowles isn't ready to rule Wirfs out.