Despite a setback from nagging injuries, Bucky Irving’s early return from surgery and elite receiving metrics signal a high-stakes bounce-back year for the Buccaneers' versatile backfield weapon.
Injuries led to a down year for Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, but Pro Football Focus still recognizes his talent as the 17th-best starting running back.
Irving finished under Javonte Williams, who plays for the Dallas Cowboys. Williams finished the season rushing for over 1,000 yards, beating Irving's total by over 600 yards. Despite injuries, Irving finishing below Williams speaks volumes about his talent.
He dealt with recurring shoulder subluxation and foot injuries throughout last season. It brought his production down from rushing for over 1,000 yards in his rookie year to rushing for 588 yards.
His rushing ability suffered significantly, as he recorded 3.4 yards per carry, which was the lowest among running backs with at least 100 carries. Irving didn't have one game with over 100 yards last season; his highest was 85 yards in Week 18 against the Carolina Panthers on Jan. 3.
The one positive from Irving last season was his production in the receiving game. He hauled in 30 receptions for 277 yards and three touchdowns. Irving had a 100-plus yard game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sept. 28 (Week 4).
Irving underwent offseason shoulder surgery to address the lingering issues he dealt with last season. Coach Todd Bowles said Irving would be available in the summer or fall, but he made a surprise return in June's OTAs.
An early return should bode well for the third-year running back. Next season is a crucial one for Irving, especially considering the signing of Kenneth Gainwell.
Gainwell is a security blanket, insurance for another injury-riddled season for Irving. However, a healthy Irving will give Tampa Bay a dynamic running back duo.
The Buccaneers' 2024 fourth-round pick was one of the more efficient running backs in his rookie season. He earned a 90.0 PFF rushing grade with 62 forced missed tackles and led the NFL with 3.93 yards after contact per attempt (among running backs with at least 150 carries).
Irving also had a 90.2 PFF receiving grade, the second-highest mark at the position. He caught 47 receptions for 392 yards in 2024, bringing his season totals to 1,514 yards.
Heading into the 2026 season, surprisingly ahead of schedule, Irving should be primed for a bounce-back year. He is entering the third year of his four-year, $4.75 million rookie contract.
A rejuvenated season from Irving would assuredly make Tampa Bay consider extending him to maintain such talent in the backfield.
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