“Freakish” Graham Barton
August 9th, 2025
Bucs sophomore center Graham Barton has looked bigger and stronger this summer.
He seems destined for improvement, which is impressive considering he was an above average starting center last season as a rookie adjusting to a new position.
The former Duke left tackle (he played very little center in college) has the attention of his quarterback, who spoke about him with reverence Thursday on SiriusXM NFL Radio.
Baker Mayfield clearly has a ton of respect for Barton.
“A guy that hadn’t played center before, coming from college was a left tackle, being able to snap it accurately, then block some of these three techniques and shades that are in the NFL now. That’s a tough task and it’s a lot of mental work, too,” Mayfield said. “It’s a lot to throw at a young guy and he’s handled it so, so well. Just unbelievably athletic up front, smart, gets guys on the same page, but then you get the outside zone [runs]. Some of the stuff when you get him out in space, that’s freakish talent is what he has.”
On the same broadcast, Bucky Irving noted he never questions Barton and the offensive line. Many running backs will question the line and want it to adjust.
Irving said he has 100 percent trust and then lets his instincts “kick in.”
Mayfield chimed in to say Irving is always in the right spot, even if a play isn’t blocked perfectly, which Mayfield called a testament to his preparation — and the linemen appreciate it.
“That’s all footwork, timing, reps on the schemes that we’re doing. And [Bucky] does a great job of that,” Mayfield said.
August 9th, 2025 at 4:15 pm
His neck and shoulders are *MUCH WIDER* than last year. He’s gonna be a load to handle now…
August 9th, 2025 at 4:30 pm
Love Barton – love the pick and I’m hoping not to sound too critical or like I’m nit picking but…seems like I read on this here corner of the interwebs that Mr. Barton got knocked on his can numerous times in training camp..? I don’t recall reading anything like that in his rookie year. I hope he IS bigger and stronger.
August 9th, 2025 at 4:32 pm
Bucs don’t carry a #2 center because they cross train their O-linemen. I think that a smart way to save a roster spot. I be been keeping an eye on Elijah Klein and wow that dude is a steam roller. If he gets his pass blocking game up to birdie bredeson could have some serious competition. Barton is a freakish athlete with the football acumen to go with it He’s on the cusp of being elite. I 💯 believe he will be elite very soon . We’re talking about a guy that transitioned from tackle in college to center in the NFL IN HIS ROOKIE SEASON. He’s gonna be elite.
As always Go Bucs.
August 9th, 2025 at 4:39 pm
This season will be the first of many pro bowls for Barton.
August 9th, 2025 at 4:40 pm
By Vita Vea. That happens to most midsized trucks when they go against Vea. He’s like the strongest dude in the NFL. Jason Kelce said Vea is why he retired, lol.
August 9th, 2025 at 6:09 pm
This guy has not even hit his “man” growth spurt. Jesus God.
Wirfs and Barton will go down as the greatest of their positions with the Bucs.
This team is young. We could see multiple SB wins out of this team.
August 9th, 2025 at 6:10 pm
There could realistically be four pro bowl OL on this team this season. Incredible to think that might be our fourth best unit on the offense.
Griz becomes a HC candidate next season, or someone else will be calling the plays.
August 9th, 2025 at 6:24 pm
Barton and the boys. Will strike. Fear across the NFL.
August 9th, 2025 at 9:07 pm
The importance of positioning…where you stand and where you move to..is important as physical differences are usually more about not being weaker than your opponent as opposed to physically dictating play…
This kid seems to it all very nicely.
August 10th, 2025 at 5:07 am
I was happy with that pick. Now I like even more.
August 10th, 2025 at 7:18 am
How much stronger Joe? What is he Benching now? Inquiring Buc fans would love to know real actual numbers. Curious as to why you never ask or find it important when discussing strength. It is the #1 indicator of a person’s strength. Please ask Joe when you’re writing an article articles about how much stronger somebody is thanks.
Truth be Told … players rarely max out and every player is on a different program with a different focus. Joe’s had guys talk about playing stronger later in their careers because they learned how to use the strength effectively, much like how fast at the Combine doesn’t necessarily mean fast on the field. Also, players, just like other dudes in the gym, lie about their numbers, and those that pay attention to their agents would never talk about their weight, speed or lifting numbers. They don’t want any of that info held against them potentially, as smart teams read everything. –Joe
August 10th, 2025 at 7:30 am
Thanks for the feedback, JOE. Every offensive lineman in the NFL shoots for benching 500 pounds. Whether they say it or not.
August 11th, 2025 at 12:51 am
LOL I love this one Joe!
I used to get so dang frustrated with one or two my teammates to include the QB. If they did not run the play as it was drawn up I’m either blocking air or blocking some big dude right in to the play. Couldn’t get on their ass because I was the lowly O lineman. Sometimes I got the blame for their screw ups. LOL Coaches knew.
Go Bucs!