The Buccaneers rookie has a lot to live up to with Jason Licht already drawing comparisons to legends!
On Thursday night, amid chaos in the NFC South, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers smoothly navigated the first round and acquired precisely what they required.
While the Saints and Panthers performed decently, their evaluations might be influenced by the Falcons’ comically poor choice of Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8, especially after investing $180 million in Kirk Cousins. This move promises lasting amusement for the entire division, not just Bucs supporters, over the next four years.
In the meantime, Tampa Bay secured Graham Barton at the 26th spot, a selection that already seems like a significant coup.
Initially projected to be chosen much earlier, Barton’s draft position was pushed back due to an early surge in quarterbacks and edge rushers. Fortunately for the Bucs, this turn of events proved beneficial as they acquired a lineman admired by Baker Mayfield and compared to top-tier players by Jason Licht.
Jason Licht compares Graham Barton to Ryan Jensen and Tristan Wirfs
In his post-draft media statements, Jason Licht commended Barton and drew parallels between him and three exceptional offensive linemen whose footsteps he will be treading in.
“His skills bring to mind Ali [Marpet] for many of us. There are shades of Ryan Jensen in him, which is definitely a positive trait, and he carries the same kind of personality as Tristan Wirfs,” Licht remarked. “So, we have quite the promising blend here.”
Bucs GM Jason Licht said Graham Barton reminds him and several others of Ali Marpet, he’s got some Ryan Jensen in him too, with the personality of Tristan Wirfs. Doesn’t get much better than that. pic.twitter.com/7jB0A2wY9E
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) April 26, 2024
While all the comparisons are notable, the reference to Jensen is particularly noteworthy. Barton’s experience at both tackle and guard during his time at Duke suggests he is expected to transition to a center role for the Buccaneers, effectively taking over Jensen’s position at the heart of the offensive line.
Finding out that Licht detects similarities between Jensen and Barton brings even more appreciation for the selection.
The assessments from experts paint Barton as not just one of the top talents in the draft, but also as one of the most intelligent players.
The combination of Barton’s capabilities with Wirfs is like a dream come true for a team that has faced significant challenges in maintaining a strong offensive line performance over the past two seasons. While there is plenty of work ahead, the Buccaneers have undeniably improved substantially from where they stood on Thursday morning.
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