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The Bucs will be missing their starting center Graham Barton, the team’s first-round pick, in the upcoming NFC South showdown against the Saints in New Orleans. Luckily, they have veteran Robert Hainsey ready to step in.
Hainsey has been a reliable starter for two years in Tampa Bay, filling in for Pro Bowler Ryan Jensen whose career was cut short due to a knee injury in 2022. Despite the change, Hainsey contributed to the Bucs’ consecutive NFC South titles.
The team has a perfect 2-0 record in New Orleans with Hainsey handling the snaps.
Barton, who suffered a hamstring injury in the previous game against the Falcons and had a subpar performance, did not practice all week. His overall grade from Pro Football Focus is lower than Hainsey’s, who was drafted to provide an upgrade in size and athleticism for the team.
Although Hainsey’s overall grade decreased in 2023, he still brings experience and reliability to the center position for the Bucs. Hainsey has proven to be one of the top backup centers in the league.
Saints’ Center Situation Is Far Worse Than The Bucs’
Bucs DT Vita Vea and Saints QB Derek Carr and C Erik McCoy – Photo by: USA Today
The Saints are facing an even more concerning situation with their center position, possibly having to start their fourth-string center in the game against the Bucs.
Starter Erik McCoy and his backup Shane Lemieux are both on injured reserve. The third-string center, Lucas Patrick, is questionable for the game after missing practice with a chest injury. If he can’t play, Connor McGovern will become the fourth center to start for the Saints this year.
This lineup issue is far from ideal, especially when facing the strong defensive line of the Bucs with players like Vita Vea and Logan Hall. Additionally, the Saints will have rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler under center, adding to the challenge.
Robert Hainsey Has Been An Absolute Pro This Year
Bucs C Robert Hainsey and LG Luke Goedeke – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR
Hainsey has only seen limited action this season, but he remains focused and professional despite being in a contract year. His friendship with Tristan Wirfs, the team captain, shows the camaraderie within the team even amidst competition for positions.
There is no hostility between Hainsey and Barton, reflecting Hainsey’s team-first mentality. The hope is that Hainsey will shine in his role against the Saints, with a potential new contract on the line. Barton, on the other hand, can use this time off to learn and improve for his return as the starting center.
“Graham is an athletic dude,” Wirfs commented. “He’s super smart. He’s confident. The more reps he has at center the better he’ll be.”
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