While he could certainly change his mind, it appears Bucs’ Pro Bowl guard Ali Marpet will stay retired. The report comes from WDAE radio host Tom Krasniqi, who spoke with Marpet via text shortly after quarterback Tom Brady shocked the football world with his return.
BREAKING: Ali Marpet says in a text to me that he will not follow suit like Brady:
"I am not unretiring. I'm excited for the Bucs, gonna be a blast to watch haha."
Marpet will not return. Like Brady, people can change their mind but as of now, Marpet stays retired #Bucs— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) March 14, 2022
Marpet stunned Bucs nation with his retirement announcement on February 27. The 28-year old finally got his due this past season with his first Pro Bowl nod. Regarded as the one of the more underrated guards in the league, Marpet has been a cornerstone on the Bucs line since they selected him in the second round of the 2015 draft. He started 101 games in his 7-year career, mostly at left guard.
The Bucs have already started to re-sign key free agents on the offensive line. Aaron Stinnie agreed to terms on a one-year, $1.4 million deal Saturday. Then Ryan Jensen agreed to a 3-year, $39 million contract late Sunday night. With Brady back, keeping continuity on the offensive line will be key.
The Bucs could turn their attention to bringing back right guard Alex Cappa next. If Cappa prices himself out of Tampa Bay as expected, the Bucs could look elsewhere for a veteran guard. Given his modest deal, Stinnie should face competition to replace Marpet at left guard. Tampa Bay could look to the draft or bring in an outside free agent.