RADIO
BALLER MOVE: Start in 14+ Team Leagues
POSITIONAL VALUE: Low-end RB3/FLEX
ANALYSIS: Don't be mistaken, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving fell in the draft due to his size, not his ability to play, and the elusive back is an excellent piece for the Bucs offense. Irving has dazzled with his quickness and lightning-quick cuts and is challenging lead RB Rachaad White for the starting role.
That said, Irving has had two decent performances against two middling run defenses. He scored 9.60 and 11.40 PPR fantasy points against the Broncos and Commaners, who both rank in the bottom half of PPR fantasy points allowed to running backs. Irving nearly scored a touchdown against the Broncos, though.
Irving was shut down by the Detroit Lions and scored just 2.20 points that game. The Buccaneers haven't been a great running team, but that mostly was due to White.
rate of RBs being stuffed for no gain in short yardage
44% - HOU
43%
42%
41%
40%
39%
38%
37%
36%
35% - MIN
34% - CIN
33% - LAC
32%
31% - DEN, JAX, ATL
30%
29% - PIT, CLE
28%
27% - WAS, WAS, NYG, TEN, SEA, DET, CAR
26% - IND
25%
24% - LV, MIA, TB, GB
23% - KC, DAL
22% - CHI, NYJ…— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) June 25, 2024
Bucky isn't about to completely take over the backfield. The most likely scenario is a committee with White, which will cap his overall touches. He doesn't have the size to be a workhorse back. However, he's made the most of his opportunities.
Two HUGE runs by Bucky Irving and suddenly the Bucs offense is alive. This kid is going to be so good. pic.twitter.com/5a7MEZs69g
— Josh Hill (@jdavhill) September 22, 2024
For now, Irving shouldn't be started unless you have big roster holes. He'll need to see an increase in volume before you should feel comfortable starting him outside of deep leagues.
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