While only a few weeks are left for the season to kick off and teams conducting mandatory OTAs, pre-season projections have started seeking the attention of the fans.
According to the latest analysis, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are named for having the best offensive line in the NFL. One of the main reasons behind the upgrade is because of the new acquisition of Shaq Mason on the roster.
After the retirement of formidable offensive guard Ali Marpet, it was a big void left in the room for the Buccaneers to fill. Moreover, trading Alex Cappa to the Cincinnati Bengals this off-season nearly collapsed the balance of the offensive line.
That’s when the front office decided to go after New England Patriots right guard Shaquille Mason.
According to ESPN’s Ben Linsey, the Buccaneers have a solid squad capable of making it into the post-season for the third time in a row. With Mason’s inclusion, the lineup has become much more formidable.
“The Buccaneers lost a quality starter at right guard in Alex Cappa and still managed to improve at the position by trading for Shaq Mason,” Linsey said, according to sports illustrated. “The right side of their offensive line has a strong case for best in the NFL.”
Tristan Wirfs and Mason are both top-three players at their position in PFF’s wins above replacement (WAR) metric over the past two seasons.” the journalist added to his analysis.
Shaq Mason is an asset for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The 28-year-old Tennessee native played a pioneering role in guarding the offensive line of the New England Patriots since 2015.
He was selected as the fourth-round pick from that year’s draft class. Mason went on to become a Super Bowl Champion twice in his career.
He has avid experience playing alongside Tom Brady in the center. The Georgia Tech alumni have started 98 games in the NFL; however, Mason often lingered with injuries. In 2018, he was offered a $50 million four-year contract extension by the Patriots. It took him through the 2021 season.
It will be interesting to see how the OG makes up for the team. Especially playing alongside Tom Brady again after parting ways with each other in 2020. Moreover, entitling the offensive line as one of the best in the NFL makes it even more challenging for the players to live up to it.
