The Buccaneers flashed both promise and concern in their Pittsburgh tuneup. Bridgewater operated with veteran poise, finishing 6-of-11 for 85 yards with two touchdowns and guiding two scoring drives, keeping QB2 chatter alive behind Mayfield. Trask struggled, hinting at deeper questions about TB’s Week 1 depth chart. Injuries to Godwin Jr. and Wirfs tightened the backfield calculus and underscored the need for more robust line play and running production.

Playmakers stepped up: Emeka Egbuka landed TB’s first NFL TD on a clean route, Zyon McCollum flashed lockdown potential with an early INT, and Kindle Vildor added an interception and sticky coverage. Jacob Parrish reinforced his growing cornerback ceiling, while Charlie Heck’s edge discipline and Wirfs’ looming return frame TB’s strategic decisions. The ground game lagged, and the defense will face steeper tests as injuries shape the next game plan.

In all, TB’s preseason flow suggests a competitive QB2 race, with Bridgewater’s steadiness potentially nudging Trask into a more defined role. Injuries and pass rush issues demand a closer look at O-line depth and backfield balance. The Steelers will be ready to test TB again, but early returns point to a capable, evolving depth chart that fantasy players should watch closely as rosters trim.

With Tristan Wirfs undergoing knee surgery, Charlie Heck's role with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has dramatically shifted from a backup offensive tackle to the starting right tackle. Heck, who signed a one-year deal earlier this year, is now expected to step up and fill the void left by Wirfs, whose absence could impact the offensive line's performance.

Heck's experience with previous teams like the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals adds depth to the Buccaneers' line. His ability to step in when needed will be crucial as the team navigates through the season without one of its key players. The transition could also bring about changes in the offensive strategy, placing greater emphasis on protecting the quarterback and ensuring the running game remains effective.

Charlie Heck has joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, adding much-needed depth to their offensive line, especially after the loss of Justin Skule to free agency. The Bucs are looking for a competent swing tackle, and Heck’s arrival aims to fill that void. During his introduction, Heck expressed admiration for his new teammate, Tristan Wirfs, calling him a 'rare freak'—a recognition of Wirfs' elite skills that have earned him All-Pro and Pro Bowl accolades.

Heck envisions observing Wirfs dominating from the sidelines, hoping his presence indicates a healthy season ahead following the injury troubles of 2024. This sentiment encapsulates the Bucs’ aspirations for improved performance and stability on the offensive front.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are bolstering their offensive line depth by signing former Houston Texans offensive tackle Charlie Heck, following the departure of Justin Skule to the Minnesota Vikings. This one-year deal offers Heck a chance to solidify his position as the swing tackle for the Bucs, potentially leading to a more permanent role next season. Drafted in the fourth round of 2020, Heck has showcased versatility across his four-year career, starting 21 of the 41 games he appeared in with the Texans. After being released by Houston, he had brief stints with the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers, before finding a new opportunity with Tampa Bay.