Can Buccaneers' Bucky Irving Squash Sophomore Slump?
The rise of Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving from backup to bonafide starter in his rookie season was a sight to behold.
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Initially starting behind Rachaad White, Irving proved with each touch that he was the star of the running back room, and eventually usurped White as the starter for Liam Coen.
A rookie season that ended with 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns, along with 47 receptions for 392 yards, paints the picture of a fourth-round pick exceeding expectations in a big way.
But as we turn for 2025, the big question facing Bucky is, can he do it again?
ESPN's Mike Clay thinks so. In his 2025 projections, Irving continues his ascension to be one of the best backs in football.
Irving's 2025 projection: 1,227 yards, eight touchdowns, 53 receptions, 409 yards, three touchdowns.
Dec 29, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) carries the ball against the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium.© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
So 1,636 all-purpose yards and 11 combined touchdowns isn't too bad for your second act in the NFL.
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That would likely equate to Pro Bowl buzz for Bucky and further establish his standing as the clear No. 1 back behind Baker Mayfield.
With his bruising, yet speedy running style, plus his ability as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, Irving is the very definition of a dual-threat back, and one that new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard will be leaning on in 2025.
Yes, this is just a projection, but there is nothing stopping Irving from hitting the numbers Clay put up, and if he does, it would mark quite the start to an NFL career for a running back who just 12 months ago wasn't even the starter.
No sophomore slump here, folks.
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Related: Buccaneers' Baker Mayfield Named 'Borderline Star' In QB Tiers
Related: Buccaneers' Mike Evans Credits Baker Mayfield For His Return
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
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