In a decisive move, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have addressed a pressing issue in the 2024 NFL Draft. They chose Duke center Graham Barton as the 26th overall pick, a selection that holds immense significance. This choice demonstrates the team's dedication to safeguarding Baker Mayfield and fortifying an inconsistent running attack, which has caused difficulties for the team over the past three seasons.

Barton makes BUCS history as the only Blue Devil to be drafted by the organization.

Building Up a Line Of Legacy

The arrival of Barton is not a mere coincidence. It is a result of the strategic planning of Bucs General Manager Jason Licht, who has consistently prioritized the construction of a formidable offensive line. 

While he struggled mightily to construct a solid offensive line in his first three years controlling the roster, he seemingly found a string of good fortune in 2018. That turnaround started with solidifying the Center position with Ryan Jensen after having moved versatile Guard Ali Marpet all over the line the previous three seasons

Licht's comparison of Barton to past Pro Bowl selections like Ryan Jensen, Ali Marpet, and Tristan Wirfs underscores Barton's potential to seamlessly fit into the team's culture, further solidifying the team's strategy.

The offensive line has been constantly shuffling since losing Marpet at Left Guard and Jensen as the Center at the end of the 2021 season. Jensen returned for one Playoff game in 2022 but missed the entire regular season due to a knee injury, which subsequently forced him into retirement.

Selecting Barton with such a high pick indicates the long-term intention to stabilize the offensive line. This is the second time in four years that Jason Licht has taken an offensive lineman in the 1st Round of the Draft. In 2020, Tristan Wirfs was selected with the 13th Overall Pick.

Versatility is Key

Much like Wirfs, one of Barton's biggest strengths is his versatility. Throughout his college career, he excelled at both Center and Left Tackle. While the Bucs project him as their starting center, his ability to play multiple positions provides valuable insurance in case of injuries. This flexibility also allows the coaching staff to explore different offensive line configurations, potentially maximizing their overall effectiveness.

While it's extremely rare to see an offensive lineman switch positions during a game, it's a sticking point for teams to see that a player can adapt and succeed if needed. Whether in-game or during the season.

Early Reviews are Positive

Analysts seem to approve of Tampa Bay's decision. NBC Sports awarded the pick a B+, praising Barton's potential to be a long-term starter. The focus now shifts to training camp, where Barton will battle for playing time and strive to solidify his place on a championship-caliber team.

Chad Reuter of NFL.com gave the Barton selection an A.

Nick Gray of The Tennessean also rated the pick an A. He named Barton his favorite interior offensive lineman in the draft and stated that " once Barton engages with a defender, that defender is blocked." 

Looking Ahead

The Buccaneers' selection of Graham Barton is a strategic move that addresses a crucial need while considering the team's future. However, the move will be judged by the success of the offensive line as a whole.

A dominant Center is only as good as the Guards playing on either side of him. So long as LG or RG is not a liability, Barton should look like a legit first-round star pick. Both spots should be open for vacancies in the training camp.