$21 million offensive lineman named Buccaneers' biggest free agency loss

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers must find a way to replace a key offensive lineman.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield calls for the ball from center Robert Hainsey. | Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made some changes during the offseason in regards to the roster, but there may not have been a loss larger than center Robert Hainsey.

Sports Illustrated writer Ryan Phillips named Hainsey as the Bucs' biggest loss this offseason.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers center Robert Hainsey against the Miami Dolphins during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Hainsey leaves big hole in Bucs offensive line

"Hainsey started at center for the Bucs in 2022 and '23 but was replaced by rookie Graham Barton in 2024. He didn't play much but, based on his previous performance, the Jaguars gave him a three-year, $21 million deal. Tampa Bay bet heavily on Barton. If it was a bad call, losing Hainsey could hurt," Phillips writes.

The Bucs already have Barton in as a replacement for Hainsey, so that softens the blow a little bit, but Tampa will need to replenish its depth at some point during the offseason.

The Buccaneers will have a chance to do that at the 2025 NFL Draft, which is scheduled for April 24-26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Stick with BucsGameday for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2025 offseason.

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