Bucky Irving

As the lead back, Irving still holds the edge. Gainwell and White look largely interchangeable, both are strong receivers who can handle carries, but neither profiles as a true full-time option. Irving, however, does have that lead-back skill set, even if his 2025 campaign was a major step back from his rookie year. Getting him back on track should be a priority for the offense. Gainwell provides a solid safety net, while Sean Tucker remans a capable depth option. Ultimately, Irving shapes as a high-risk, high-reward RB1 candidate, with a draft price that should reflect the uncertainty.

Irving is positioned to lead the Tampa Bay backfield rotation, offering solid volume assurance with Kenny Gainwell serving as the primary complement.

Sean Tucker may retain the goal-line role after leading the Buccaneers with seven rushing touchdowns last season, and Kenneth Gainwell projects as the primary pass-catcher out of the backfield. Even if Irving is finally fully healthy, too many of his touches could come between the twenties.

Bucky Irving is now looking ready to play Week 1. Still, I'm skeptical about him playing the entire season. I was thinking Irving would miss 5-7 games. I was projecting seven games, but now, I'm adjusting to five.  

Irving is small and his body hasn't held up to playing big. I'm expecting a three-headed backfield with Gainwell as the touch leader -- think 240-250 touches, 1,100-1,200 yards from scrimmage, and 8-11 scores. 

Gainwell is the least explosive of the three backs, but he's the savviest as a decision-maker and receiver from the backfield. 

If Irving stays healthy all year, look for an even split with Gainwell at 160 rushing attempts and 40-45 targets apiece with 700-900 yards from scrimmage for both. 

This would put Gainwell closer to Travis Etienne on my board.