Bucs Reportedly See 'Special' Bucky Irving as RB1, Rachaad White Still Has a Role

Bucky Irving appears poised to have a big time season for fantasy players.

According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers "love that guy, and while they also like Rachaad White and have a role planned for him, Irving is viewed by people in the building as special enough to warrant a high-volume RB1 role. That includes pass-catching work."

Irving, 22, had a fantastic rookie season, rushing for 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns while catching 47 passes for 392 yards. By the second half of the 2024 season, it was clear he had seized the top role in Tampa's backfield, and that appears very unlikely to change this season. If anything, the gap between him and White should only widen.

"His vision," quarterback Baker Mayfield told Graziano when asked what makes Irving special. "His timing of when he's supposed to hit the gas. He's patient, patient and then hits it. I just think he's always looking to score. It's tough to see in practice. Like, last year at this time I was like, 'Eh. We'll see. It looks good.' But didn't expect it to be like it was. He's just tough to bring down. He's strong, he's got great vision, he understands it, and then also you add in the ability to catch too. He's well-rounded."

If Irving isn't on your radar as a potential low-end RBI or high-end RB2, he should be. A major breakout season could be on the horizon.

As for White, he's a good handcuff to have. But if you are hoping to get flex production out of him this season, you may be disappointed.