Buccaneers' Baker Mayfield talks about his new center during the team's OTAs
There are few relationships closer in football than that of a quarterback and center. There has to be an understanding, a level of comfort, and surely a rhythm between the duo in order to get the play started on the right foot without issue play in and play out. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have […]
There are few relationships closer in football than that of a quarterback and center. There has to be an understanding, a level of comfort, and surely a rhythm between the duo in order to get the play started on the right foot without issue play in and play out.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have QB Baker Mayfield back in 2024 after he signed a big contract extension with the team back in March. However, he will have a new face lining up in front of him in rookie first round draft pick Graham Barton.
Mayfield met with the media on Tuesday, and he weighed in on what he's seen so far from the man who will be delivering him the ball on Sundays.
"The one thing I'll say: Playing center in the NFL, it's not easy," Mayfield said. "There are just so many different looks, fronts, blitzes and just the communication. It's a whole different ballgame. I think he's handling it really well. Now, the physical aspects of Graham – he's a stud. He can move people off the ball, he's quick, just the way he gets his feet up under him, how he leverages blocks and understands what we're trying to get done, that's really special.
"I think, for him, he's got all the physical tools that he needs – that's why he got drafted that high – but it's taking time to learn it, get the reps. It's just going to take time for him. Luckily, he'll be surrounded by good people, though, and will get to learn from some greats as well."
A quarterback's two best friends are a good running game and effective pass protection. Barton has the tools to be outstanding in both areas. The former tackle allowed just two sacks and nine pressures in 496 snaps at Duke last year. This will be another lever for him, both switching positions back inside from tackle as well as getting a grasp on the complexities of pass protections and NFL defensive schemes.
As Mayfield aptly noted, it's just a matter of time and practice for Barton to get where he needs to be. If Barton can bring the mental side of the game, the knowledge, up to speed with the physical attributes he brings, then he has a chance to step in and become an impact player very quickly.
Buccaneers OTAs: Head coach Todd Bowles points out a pleasant surprise he didn’t see coming
OTAs and minicamp are all about laying the groundwork for training camp and getting an idea of who is progressing when it comes to the mental side of things. It's also a chance for players to bond and create the much-needed chemistry required to win games in the NFL. When it comes to the trenches, […]
