Bucs Sign Offensive Lineman

Opeta is 27 years old and will be 28 by the start of the regular season. He went undrafted out of Weber State but signed on with the Philadelphia Eagles where he spent four seasons until signing with Tampa Bay this offseason. In his first year, Opeta bounced from the practice squad to the main roster, but was a mainly on the active roster for the next three seasons with some brief trips to the practice squad for some roster moves.

In his career, Opeta has played in 38 games while starting in 10. Last season he was in for 13 and had six starts, which provides the Bucs with value if they want to consider him for a starting role.

Bucs Offensive Line Room

This was the third signing that the Bucs made on Friday after agreeing to a deal with interior offensive lineman Ben Bredeson and bringing back offensive tackle Justin Skule. The interior of the line is an important focus for Tampa Bay. They are looking to upgrade over Robert Hainsey at center.

And with Aaron Stinnie signing with the Giants and Nick Leverett signing with the Patriots in free agency, it opens up a spot at left guard. It does not appear that Matt Feiler will be re-signed.

Ideally, Bredeson and Opeta will come into training camp looking to fill that role. It’s also possible Bredeson comes in to play center as well.

This likely isn’t the last time we see Tampa Bay address this position. Another free agent signing can’t be ruled out and there are good odds that center Jackson Powers-Johnson or Duke offensive lineman Graham Barton could be the Bucs’ first pick in the NFL draft if they are available.