Former Iowa OL Tristan Wirfs leads all rookie OTs in key stat

Everyone knows about touchdowns, interceptions, and rushing yards, but for an offensive lineman, there are few stats that are common knowledge.

Giving their quarterback time in the pocket is their job, and when comparing “Quarterback Pressure Allowed” Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirf is one of the best.

With just a QB PA of just 3.4%, the former Iowa standout leads the rookie OT class, according to Pro Football Focus.

QB pressure % allowed by 1st RD OTs

1. Tristan Wirfs, Bucs – 3.4%
2. Jedrick Wills Jr, Browns – 3.8%
3. Mekhi Becton, Jets – 5.4%
4. Austin Jackson, Dolphins – 8.1%
5. Andrew Thomas, Giants – 10.6% pic.twitter.com/Z6oHFiSoLk

— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 27, 2020

In the Bucs’ first 13 games this season, Wirfs has shown his skill. Pro Football Focus lists him as the NFL’s fourth-highest graded rookie right tackle (81.4) since 2006.

He has been an important piece to Tom Brady’s protection as Tampa Bay is looking for a deep playoff run. Wirfs is the only Bucs lineman to play all 861 offensive snaps and has totaled only three penalties (one hold, two false starts).

Wirfs was a standout contributor with the Hawkeyes before being drafted No. 13 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft.