Nationwide recognition has rolled in for the Bucs ‘ top talent as Pete Prisco of CBS Sports included two of Tampa Bay’s cornerstone gamers, Tristan Wirfs and Baker Mayfield, on his newest Prime 100 gamers record. Wirfs got here in at twenty second general whereas Mayfield was additional again at No. 80.
Bucs’ Tristan Wirfs And Baker Mayfield Amongst The Greatest Of The Bunch
Here’s what Pete Prisco mentioned about every participant:
Tristan Wirfs
“He missed the first three games with a knee issue, but returned to play at his usual high standard. He is outstanding in pass protection.”
Bucs LT Tristan Wirfs – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
Baker Mayfield
“After a big 2024 season, Mayfield battled through injuries to both himself and several of his offensive teammates in 2025. He wasn’t the same player he was the year before. His numbers all came down, but the talent is still there.”
For the Bucs, it’s a mirrored image of each elite particular person efficiency and the inspiration of a crew nonetheless very a lot in competition within the NFC. It may also be a bit irritating that solely two gamers made this record contemplating the expertise that the Bucs have on their crew, and in addition for the truth that they didn’t attain the postseason regardless of a 6-2 begin.
Take a look at the total record from Prisco of the highest 100 gamers.
Tristan Wirfs Continues To Dominate
Tristan Wirfs’ inclusion comes as no shock. Extensively considered one of many premier offensive tackles in soccer, he has seamlessly transitioned into one of many league’s most dominant left tackles. His mixture of athleticism, energy and method has made him a cornerstone piece defending Mayfield’s blindside. He’s a participant that opposing defenses should account for each snap.
What makes Wirfs particularly helpful is his consistency. Whether or not dealing with elite edge rushers or anchoring within the run sport, he’s been as dependable as any lineman within the NFL. Recognition like this solely reinforces what’s already well-known contained in the constructing, that the Bucs have probably the greatest within the enterprise and a future Corridor of Famer. That’s what made Wirfs’ absence at first of the season such a surprising revelation.
Bucs LT Tristan Wirfs – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
Baker Mayfield Nonetheless Makes Checklist Regardless of Worst Yr With Bucs
Baker Mayfield’s presence on the record tells a distinct, however equally compelling story.
He has totally re-established himself as a professional beginning quarterback, and greater than that, a frontrunner able to elevating the offense. His toughness, playmaking potential and command of the system have been important to the Bucs’ success, notably in high-pressure moments.
And but Mayfield had simply his worst season in Tampa Bay. It actually was not all his doing by any means, however he and the Bucs mustered solely eight wins when the expectations have been at a minimal to get again to 10 and sure go even increased than that. Mayfield threw for his fewest quantity of passing yards, passing touchdowns and his lowest completion since placing on a Bucs uniform.
Bucs QB Baker Mayfield – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
However being on this record exhibits that it’s nonetheless understood that Mayfield and firm can nonetheless be prolific once they put all of it collectively. The expertise is in there with Mayfield, so even what is taken into account a down 12 months for him continues to be higher than others. Plus having more healthy offensive weapons round him for 2026 ought to see these numbers bounce again up.
Have been Any Bucs Gamers Snubbed?
With gamers like Antoine Winfield Jr. and others persevering with to provide at a excessive degree, Tampa Bay may quickly see much more illustration in future rankings. For now, although, Wirfs and Mayfield stand as clear examples of the crew’s high-end expertise — and why expectations stay elevated.
Bucs S Antoine Winfield Jr. and OLB Yaya Diaby – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
Might anybody else have made the record? It’s powerful to say sure for Winfield, who’s coming off a Professional Bowl season, or anybody defensively. It was such a nasty 12 months for the unit that it’s powerful to even make a case for a participant equivalent to Vita Vea, who took on a lot with the absence of Calijah Kancey for almost all of the season.
Perhaps there might be a slight case for second-year large receiver Emeka Egbuka. However a gradual second half in all probability did him in after a scorching begin to his rookie season. Egbuka wouldn’t be a shock if he have been to be seen on this record after season. And that will imply much more success for Tampa Bay in consequence.
