TAMPA — The Bucs will start the season without All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs, who underwent surgery on his right knee Tuesday and likely will miss at least the first couple of games of the regular season.
Wirfs aggravated a right knee injury that forced him to miss one game last season.
The Bucs scheduled arthroscopic surgery Tuesday, and some additional minor damage was found.
Wirfs likely will begin the season on the physically unable to perform list.
It’s a big blow for the Bucs. Wirfs protects the blind side of quarterback Baker Mayfield, one of his closest friends on the team.
The Bucs signed former 49ers left tackle Charlie Heck in free agency. He is likely to replace Wirfs to start the season.
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