Bucs’ Bucky Irving Reveals Plan to Not Get ‘Stuck’ in Year 2

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 12:01 AM ET

For a rookie who rushed for 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns, it is a little odd to say that they have to prove themselves in Year 2, but that is the mindset Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving is taking.

After usurping Rachaad White for the starting role early on last season, Irving produced several blistering displays that made him one of the better backs in football.

However, as we know, success in the NFL isn't linear, and what was good one year may not be the next.

And after a standout rookie season, Bucky is taking himself back to square one ahead of Year 2.

“Always going back and looking at the film and looking at things that you can get better at and improve in,” Irving said. “Also not getting satisfied and stuck in last year because it's a new year, nobody cares about what you did last year, its what can you do for me now, but I always been that guy that never gets stuck in the past and always be with my feet at and work hard every day.”

After what Irving produced last season, it is only natural to expect an uptick in performance, and with the starting five of the offensive line all returning, there is every reason to suggest Bucky will again contribute heavily to Josh Grizzard's offense.

Irving only started three games last season, so we imagine that will increase dramatically now that he is the starter, with White and Sean Tucker as the change-ups behind Baker Mayfield.

It was a rookie season to remember for the fourth-round pick, but last year was last year - now he's out to prove it wasn't a fluke.

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

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