Bucky Irving, the Bucs’ fourth-round draft pick, wants to be underestimated. At 5-foot-10 and 195 pounds, he faces concerns about his size potentially limiting him at the next level. Despite this, Irving is motivated to prove his doubters wrong by outperforming expectations. With a strong college performance of 1,180 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last year at Oregon, Irving aims to show his elusiveness and ability to make defenders miss. The Bucs have struggled with their running game in recent seasons and are hoping Irving can help turn that around, especially with his agility and potential for big plays.
Irving’s undervalued qualities stand out in his elusiveness and knack for making the first defender miss, something that Tampa Bay has lacked in recent years. His ability to stick his foot in the ground and change directions quickly could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s running game. Despite concerns about his size, Irving’s consistent college production at Minnesota and Oregon, with an average of 6.2 yards per carry, has caught the attention of the Bucs. He is not expected to bulldoze through defenders like Christian Okoye but has shown an ability to stay on his feet and make plays despite being under 200 pounds.
As Irving transitions to the NFL, he will not only be a factor in the running game but also in the passing game, showcasing his versatility as a receiver out of the backfield. Having led all FBS running backs with 56 receptions last season at Oregon, he adds another dimension to the offense. The NFL’s new kickoff return format, where blockers must stay in place until the ball is caught, could also present an opportunity for Irving to showcase his vision and quickness in open field situations. His willingness to take hits and make plays regardless of his size makes him a valuable asset for the Bucs.
Irving’s impact on the team goes beyond his physical attributes, as he aims to set the tone for the offense with his work ethic and determination. Coming into a team that prioritizes a balanced offensive approach, Irving understands the importance of establishing the run game. Despite being more reserved off the field, he plans to let his performance on the field speak for itself. By focusing on learning the playbook and earning the trust of his coaches and teammates, Irving is positioning himself to make a strong first impression and contribute significantly to the team.
As one of the first Bucs draft picks to sign his rookie contract, Irving is eager to put aside distractions and concentrate on his development as a professional athlete. With the guidance of new offensive coordinator Liam Coen, the team is aiming to bolster its ground game and achieve a level of offensive balance that has been lacking in previous seasons. Irving’s commitment to his work ethic and his determination to prove his worth on the field align with the team’s objectives. By embracing his underdog status and using it as fuel to perform at his best, Irving has the potential to make a significant impact in his rookie season and beyond.
Greg Auman, FOX Sports’ NFC South reporter, covers the Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers, and Saints. With a decade of experience reporting on the Bucs and the NFL, Auman provides insights into the team’s roster and potential impact players like Bucky Irving. By highlighting Irving’s strengths and his potential to redefine perceptions about his size and ability, Auman sheds light on the rookie running back’s journey to prove himself in the NFL. As Irving embraces the challenges that come with being underestimated, he is poised to make a lasting impression and contribute to the Bucs’ success in the upcoming season.
