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Bucs' Irving Disrespected with Surprising Snub

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Anthony Goss | Last updated Jan 23, 2025 5:38 PM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers did not anticipate the impact that rookie running back Bucky Irving delivered in his first season. He went off the board to the Bucs in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, thought to be a complement to starting back Rachaad White.

However, Irving's performance early flipped that narrative. He started making waves during the team's offseason programming and translated to that work on the field in the preseason and start of the regular season.

Quickly, he surpassed White as Tampa Bay's No. 1 running back and did not disappoint through the remainder of the year. Irving's efforts not only saw him finish atop the running back leaderboard, but also land a spot on the Professional Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team.

That came on the shoulders of a season that saw him lead all rookies at his position in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. Unfortunately, that resumé would not put him in position for position wide league honors.

Irving's name missed the final cut for the Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year. Names on the ballot include Jayden Daniels, Brock Bowers, Bo Nix, Brian Thomas Jr. and Malik Nabers. Looking at this group, is there perhaps some disrespect for a somewhat surprising ballot snub here?

There is certainly an argument for Irving's inclusion on the list. He is presumably the first one left off the ballot and would be the only non first round pick if he made the cut.

The players ahead of him lived up to their rookie season expectations, but Irving remains one of the lone players who dramatically outperformed draft day expectations. His level of play not only surpassed the needs of his team, but helped the Bucs resurrect a league-worst running game and turn it into one of the best.

Even with his inclusion on the list, it would be unlikely to see Irving claim the award given the stellar first season for Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels who has his team positioned for a Super Bowl berth win a win on Sunday.

Nonetheless, Bucs fans have a bright backfield star who dazzled in year one and should continue his growth in the 2025 season.

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

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