Their communication is important while they work through the tackle situation and establish that consistency, as Bitonio said he, Teller and Pocic must keep the pocket firm and know their assignments so the tackles – as the bookends of the offensive line – can also keep their assignments.
Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees sees their level of communication as “seamless,” and one that is beneficial to the offensive line as a unit. He also views Lucas’ veteran experience as a trait that will translate easily into a larger role with the offensive line.
“I think the confidence that Joel can give those guys, the confidence that Wyatt can give those guys by playing next to them, communicating, they know the offense in and out, so they’re able to kind of breed some confidence into those young players, just because they can communicate so much easier,” Rees said. “And then as you build a continuity with that group, you hope it becomes seamless, right? Like, you look at lines that can play together, if they stay healthy, or if they’re together for a long time, usually that group of five can kind of feel each other in a way that passing off games, communicating different looks, that becomes very seamless for them.”
And as Lucas plays alongside them more, he knows he will learn those different techniques and calls they use as a unit – all in an effort to build continuity.
“Being with a group that’s been together for so long, there’s value in continuity. And so just having that be the standard, it’s easy to hang your hat on that and figure out where you fit at in that puzzle,” Lucas said. “It comes with time, playing alongside them, hearing the calls, seeing the plays, see how they interact on a day-to-day basis. We’re with each other all the time. You learn something new about everybody each day.”