TAMPA, Fla. (AP) Tristan Wirfs knows he has a critical role to play in helping Tom Brady transform the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into winners. The rookie is undaunted by the challenge of preparing for the task without the benefit of a normal preseason.

The former Iowa star was the 13th pick in this year's NFL draft, addressing the need to bolster an offensive line responsible for protecting the team's 43-year-old quarterback and opening holes for what has a chance to be an improved rushing attack.

Although Wirfs, 21, is expected to be an immediate starter at right tackle, he concedes he and other first-year players have a lot of ground to cover in training camp. They must get up to speed after not being able to participate in a full offseason program due to the coronavirus pandemic.