The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a tough start to the season without their best protector. Tristan Wirfs ‘ knee injury , which will see him begin the season on the PUP list, has opened the door for Charlie Heck to assume the starting left tackle role in the opening weeks.
Heck, who arrived as a backup at swing tackle, now faces the responsibility of protecting Baker Mayfield’s blind side and stabilizing an offensive line that hopes to maintain its level despite the All-Pro’s absence.
A veteran with experience, but with a new challenge
At 28 years old and five seasons in the NFL, Charlie Heck was selected in the fourth round by the Houston Texans in 2020 and has played 50 games and made 23 starts . In recent years, he has played for the Cardinals and 49ers, always serving as a backup tackle.
His imposing physique (6’2″ and 310 lbs) allows him to provide solidity in pass protection, although his height makes it difficult for him to win the leverage battle in the running game. Still, his numbers are comparable to—and even slightly better than—those of the Bucs’ former swing tackle, Justin Skule.
In his career, Heck has allowed 66 pressures and nine sacks in 854 snaps , a 7.7% clip , slightly better than Skule’s when he arrived in Tampa Bay.
The support of the technical staff and the contingency plan
Heck will have two months to acclimate before his September 7 debut against the Falcons. He’ll be supported by coaches Kevin Carberry (running game coordinator) and Brian Picucci (assistant offensive line coach), who have already demonstrated their ability to get the most out of backups in difficult situations.
Last year’s experience without Wirfs leaves a clear roadmap:
- More frequent use of 12 personnel , aligning two tight ends to reinforce the left side.
- More short, quick passes to reduce pressure on the tackle.
- Adjustments to the running game to maintain scheme variety and not leave Heck exposed in obvious passing situations.
This strategy kept elite pass rushers like Nick Bosa and Kayvon Thibodeaux at bay when Skule covered for Wirfs.
Heck trusts in the team’s talent
In his presentation after signing with the Buccaneers, Heck made it clear that he saw Tampa Bay as a team “very close to contending for the Lombardi .” Now, his opportunity comes sooner than expected.
“I’m excited to be here. This offensive line has always appealed to me, and I know I can fit in. I’ll learn the offense quickly and contribute everything I can,” Heck said after his signing.
With his versatility to play on both sides of the line, the veteran has the opportunity to establish himself as a temporary starter and earn the trust of the coaching staff.
A demanding start to the season
Wirfs’ absence is a tough blow, but the Bucs are confident they can repeat the formula that worked for them in 2024: fine-tuning the system, spreading the load, and minimizing risks. Heck isn’t Wirfs—few in the league are—but with preparation, tactical support, and chemistry with the rest of the line, he can be a more than worthy patch for the first few weeks.
