Bucky Irving emerged in the second half of the season after being used sparingly to start the year. The team had Rachaad White, who they trusted to be the key starter for them, but he eventually lost the role to the rookie Irving.
Now that the season is over, NFL Media has released their updated running back rankings, and Bucky Irving debuts just outside the top 10.
Veteran running back turned media member Maurice Jones-Drew published his list of the best running backs in the league. Jones-Drew praised the Bucs rookie running back by placing him at 11.
The NFL veteran running back writes, “Of all the players in the top 11, Irving is the one no one saw coming. . .He established himself as an above-average back in the second half of the season by recording 834 scrimmage yards in Weeks 12-18, third-most in the league in that span. I was impressed with his physicality when running between the tackles but also his ability to catch passes out of the backfield.”
Irving is expected to start the season with the lead-back role, which should have him producing at a much higher level. Not to mention, the team may be moving on from Rachaad White this offseason as they expand Irving’s role.
Lots to be excited about in the Bucs offense, especially the former Oregon Ducks running back.