The NFL's new Protector of the Year award is set to go to the NFL's best offensive lineman, with the league finally giving the trenches some love with a new annual award. Buccaneers left tackle Tristan Wirfs, an All-Pro in 2024, was initially one of the frontrunners for the award — but that's changed after Wednesday's news.

The All-Pro will miss at least the first couple of games and could begin the season on the physically unable to perform list.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are experiencing some unexpected turbulence ahead of the 2025 season. All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs will miss the start of the season after undergoing surgery on his right knee,