Buccaneers' Bucky Irving Ranks as Ideal Franchise 'Building Block'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jul 5, 2025 10:09 PM ET

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving had quite the rookie season, starting as the backup before usurping Rachaad White for the starting role.

A dynamic runner, as he totaled 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns, Bucky was also a weapon out of the backfield, with 47 receptions and 392 yards.

Now, coming into his second season, where it is expected that he will be the bell cow for Josh Grizzard, the offense might lean on Irving to then set up the passing game with Baker Mayfield.

Given what Bucky does for the Buccaneers, Bleacher Report has named him as the franchise's most promising building block.

"As a rookie last season, Bucky Irving took over the lead role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers backfield," Bleacher Report writes. "He led the team in rushing (1,122) and scrimmage yards (1,514). Irving was more productive and efficient with his carries than Rachaad White, averaging 5.4 yards per carry compared to 4.3 yards per rush attempt for his running mate. The two tailbacks posted similar numbers in catches and receiving yards, but White recorded six touchdown receptions.

"If White moves on in free agency next offseason, Irving could handle 300-plus touches in 2026 and beyond."

We've seen it with Ezekiel Elliott in his early days, Saquon Barkley last year, and Derrick Henry with the Tennessee Titans, an offense leaning heavily on the run game to carry the offense.

Will that be what awaits Irving? Possibly, but with the abundance of weapons at Mayfield's disposal, some snaps might be given to the passing game.

Still, Irving will play a key role for Grizzard in 2025 and could be the driving force behind the offense, replicating its explosive nature this upcoming season.

And as far as building the offense around Irving, you couldn't pick a better player to do that with in Tampa.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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