How quickly things have changed for Bucs swing tackle Charlie Heck.

Heck went from filling an important albeit backup role on the offensive line to likely protecting quarterback Baker Mayfield’s blindside for the first several games of the 2025 season. Doing so will mean filling the shoes of left tackle Tristan Wirfs. There is no replacing the All-Pro’s elite level of play, but the hope is that the veteran newcomer can do enough to stabilize the position until Wirfs’ return.

There is optimism that he can do so, especially under the tutelage of run game coordinator/offensive line coach Kevin Carberry. Back in March, Heck spoke of his excitement to join the team and how much of a factor the coaching staff played into his decision-making process.

As He Enters The Spotlight, Charlie Heck Has Time To Get Up To Speed

Back when Charlie Heck held his introductory press conference after signing with the Bucs, not much attention was given to the comments he made as most did not expect the team to be sitting here facing life without Tristan Wirfs to begin the season. Due to Wirfs’ knee injury, it has put Heck into the spotlight, making it important to look back at what he had to say and why he sees Tampa Bay as more than just a change of scenery.

Bucs OT Charlie Heck – Photo courtesy of the Buccaneers

“I’m really excited to be here,” Heck said about joining the team. “I’ve done a workout here before and I’m glad that it came around full circle like this and now I’m back here. I’m excited to be a part of this team.”

Moreover, Heck sees this team being close to hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

“They’re right there,” Heck added. “I’m excited to get here, learn the offense and just be here. They’ve got all of the talent in the world on this offense, so I’m excited.”

A big factor that led him being interested being a part of the organization was the coaching staff.

“I mean, just keeping up with different O-lines during my career, this is one that I’ve always kind of kept my eyes on,” Heck said coming in. “It’s been a group that I would be excited to be a part of, so I’m happy to be here. They’ve done a great job.”

Kevin Carberry as well as offensive line coach Brian Picucci will be helping him get acclimated quickly as he gets first-team reps in training camp next to left guard Ben Bredeson. Each day of practice allows Heck to build trust and chemistry with the offensive line as he is entrusted to play a critical role.

Bucs OTs Charlie Heck and Luke Goedeke – Photo courtesy of the Buccaneers

Before he suits up for the Bucs regular-season opener against the Falcons on September 7, he has nearly two months to fully get up to speed before stepping into the starting left tackle spot.

A spot held by arguably the best player on the team and one of the best offensive tackles in all of football.

From the moment Heck walked in the building, he realized how special Wirfs is.

“Unbelievable,” Heck said describing his reaction seeing Wirfs for the first time. “That dude is enormous. He’s unbelievable, especially, I mean, talk about somebody who was able to go from right tackle and then over to left, and he’s doing it at an All-Pro level. So, I’m excited to be in an O-line room with somebody like that… I mean, he’s one of those rare freaks that don’t come around often.”

Charlie Heck Ready To Make A Statement Along Bucs’ Offensive Line

A fourth-round pick by the Texans in 2020, Charlie Heck has played in 50 games, making 23 starts. It has been an up-and down ride for Heck, as after four seasons in Houston, he split last year between the Cardinals and 49ers.

Getting into game action meant playing wherever he was needed, which has allowed him to carve out a role as a swing tackle. It was something the Bucs direly needed after seeing Justin Skule depart for the Vikings in free agency. While losing Skule hurts, there is reason to believe Heck cannot play at a similar level as time is on his side to learn.

Bucs OT Charlie Heck – Photo by: USA Today

Having experience playing both tackle spots will aid him during this process.

“Your job as a swing tackle is you’ve got to be ready to play both sides,” Heck said. “Some people are more comfortable at one or the other, but when push comes to shove, you’ve got to be ready to play both. When you’re in that backup role as a swing, you’ve got to be going into the week picturing that you’re going to be the starter. You’re probably not going to get nearly as many reps in practice, so that just comes down to watching the starter there and visualizing how you would do that. Anything can happen – you’ve got to be ready.”

While protecting Baker Mayfield is the number one priority for Heck and the rest of the Bucs’ offensive line, not far behind is creating holes and lanes for the run game. For the rushing attack to be as successful as last year, the 28-year-old will have to showcase his athleticism in a diversified run scheme.

What will that require?