Why Bucky Irving Is Primed for a Bounce-Back Season With the Buccaneers
Bucky Irving entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick from Oregon in the 2024 draft with something to prove. By the end of his rookie season, however, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back had established himself as one of the league's most promising young offensive weapons.
Irving's 2024 rookie campaign was far more impressive than many experts and fans expected. He rushed for 1,122 yards on 207 carries, averaging an outstanding 5.4 yards per attempt while scoring eight touchdowns. His 90.8 PFF grade was fourth among NFL running backs, and his yards per carry were the third-highest ever for rookie running backs with a minimum of 200 attempts in a season.
He also contributed as a receiver, catching 47 passes for 392 yards, finishing the year with 1,514 total scrimmage yards. Such contributions from a first-year player are rare, and show that he has a unique skillset.
After a disappointing 2025 season (his 69.2 PFF rushing grade was near the bottom of qualified running backs), some may wonder whether Irving can regain that form. But a closer look suggests last year was more of an aberration than a true indication of his ability. All evidence points to the likelihood of a promising season ahead in 2026.
Why Bucky Irving can break out again
Irving has always separated himself with his patience, balance, and ability to make defenders miss. During his rookie season, per Next Gen Stats, he forced the highest missed tackle rate among qualifying NFL ball carriers with at least 150 touches at 35.8 percent, forcing 91 missed tackles, which was the fourth-most in the league that season.
He's also a legitimate threat catching passes out of the backfield, hauling in 47 receptions that year. Players who can run and catch are a unique find in the NFL.
Why last season was an aberration
The biggest reason for optimism is that Irving's 2025 struggles came during a season hampered by injuries. He appeared in only 10 games and dealt with shoulder and foot issues, which affected his ability to maintain the explosiveness he displayed as a rookie.
Despite those challenges, Irving still produced 588 rushing yards and added 277 receiving yards in limited action.
A healthy offseason should allow Irving to return to the traits that made him one of Tampa Bay's most dynamic young players. The Buccaneers may have found their long-term answer at running back and 2026 could be the season Bucky Irving reminds the NFL why he became a breakout star in the first place.
Copyright 2026 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published July 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM.