The Associated Press, or AP, just announced their 2022 NFL All-Pro teams this afternoon. While no Bucs made the first team,  right tackle Tristan Wirfs made the second team.

For Wirfs, this is his second consecutive selection to an All-Pro team. It also is the second consecutive day he has been recognized for not just his play on the field but for being a good guy off the field.

While Wirfs finished second among right tackles to Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles, it remains an impressive feat considering that he only played in 13 games this season. In an interesting note from Jon Ledyard, he allowed just five pressures in 626 pass-blocking snaps this season. Since arriving in the league as a first-round pick in 2020, he has been a dominant force along the Bucs’ offensive line.

Bucs RT Tristan Wirfs – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Putting this into further context, Pro Football Focus (PFF) also graded Wirfs highly for his play. Among the 81 tackles that they tracked this season, Wirfs ranks 6th, ahead of Johnson. His 83.8 grade is also the highest grade for any Bucs offensive player. Still just 23 (turning 24 later this month), there will be plenty more awards for Wirfs to garner as he continues to build out his resume.

Wirfs Is A Key Bucs Cornerstone

His resume also lines him up nicely for his next contract when that day comes. It will be no surprise if Wirfs becomes the highest-paid tackle in the league, even if he plays right tackle instead of the more highly compensated blindside. As mentioned this season, he could even move over to left tackle if the need arises for the Bucs.

While offensive linemen often do not generate the headlines they deserve, Wirfs has the argument of being the best player on the roster. As a cornerstone of the line, he has stepped up his leadership this season with an overhauled offensive line protecting quarterback Tom Brady.

With the retirement of left guard Ali Marpet, the departure of right guard Alex Cappa in free agency, and the loss of center Ryan Jensen in training camp, Wirfs has been the most consistent presence up front. Not only is he a deserving All-Pro, but he is also an anchor that the Bucs can rely on game in and game out. They will need him, especially as they face the Cowboys on Monday night in the Wild Card round.