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Tristan Wirfs, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ talented left tackle, is advocating for an extra bye week in the National Football League.
In a recent interview on the Vikes Verified podcast, Wirfs expressed his concern about the toll that an extended regular season takes on players’ bodies and firmly stated the need for an additional week of rest, according to Pewter report.
As the NFL implemented a 17-game regular season in 2021, players and teams were presented with new challenges. While the addition of a 17th game brought excitement for fans, it also raised concerns among players who value player safety and longevity.
The prospect of setting new records and accumulating more statistics juxtaposed with the increased wear and tear on their bodies.
Despite the introduction of an extra game, teams still only receive one bye week. The league already schedules teams to play multiple Thursday night games, which allows for shorter recovery times. Additionally, Monday night games and flex scheduling can significantly impact teams’ schedules. Yet, players are afforded only a single week off.
Wirfs, a prominent figure in the Bucs’ offensive line, is using his platform to champion the cause for an additional bye week.
“There is a difference between going from 16 games to 17 games,” Wirfs confidently asserted. “We need an extra bye week.”
With rumors circulating about a potential shift to an 18-game regular season in the future, the importance of an extra bye week becomes even more evident.
Wirfs also made a bold prediction about the Buccaneers’ upcoming season, forecasting a 12-5 record following a disappointing 8-9 campaign in the previous year.
As discussions surrounding player safety and the length of the NFL season continue, Wirfs’ voice adds weight to the debate.
As a highly respected player and representative of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his advocacy for an additional bye week resonates with fellow players and fans who recognize the physical demands of the sport.