According to ESPN’s Jenna Laine, the Bucs have re-signed guard Aaron Stinnie to a one-year deal. The contract allows Stinnie to earn up to $2.5 million, likely by hitting incentives. The four-year pro started one game for the Bucs in the regular season last year. But Stinnie was critical during the Bucs’ Super Bowl run in 2020, stepping in for an injured Alex Cappa for three straight playoff games.

Following the retirement of Ali Marpet, Stinnie will have the opportunity to compete for the start right guard spot. He’s filled in admirably in the past, and is reliable depth at the very least. The undrafted lineman could be the frontrunner for a full-time role in 2022.

The re-signing of Stinnie won’t impact the Bucs desire to bring back center Ryan Jensen and right guard Alex Cappa. It’s possible the team loses one or both in free agency, but it won’t be because of Stinnie’s return. The Bucs view Stinnie as a possible starter at left guard, preferably with Jensen and Cappa in the lineup. But it won’t be easy to bring back either veteran given their expected markets.

On Monday, March 14 at noon EST, free agents can begin negotiating with other teams.