Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie running back Bucky Irving has been one of the most exciting players in the NFL to watch as a rookie. Most of the focus around Offensive Rookie of the Year (ROY) candidates has been on quarterbacks like Washington’s Jayden Daniels and Denver’s Bo Nix. Still, Irving’s performances this season warrant serious consideration for the award.
On Sunday, Irving displayed his abilities as a dual threat in the New York Giants’ easy win. He rushed for 87 yards and caught 64 more, for 151 scrimmage yards and a touchdown. He posted his best performance of the season as a sign that he is helping fill in with Tampa Bay’s offense after losing their star wide receiver, Godwin for the season. Irving, who’s split snaps with Rachaad White, has consistently given big plays, including a ridiculous 7.3 yards per carry against the Giants.
Bucky Irving improved in:
➖Rushing Attempts
➖Rushing Yards
➖Total TD's
➖Receptions
➖Receiving Yards..in EVERY collegiate season
He ranks 1st in Catch Rate (94.1%) and 4th in Yards Created/Touch (4.50) amongst ALL RB’s in 2024.
Bucky Irving just keeps getting better man. pic.twitter.com/y2NjvRtM4Q
— Austin Abbott (@AustinAbbottFF) November 26, 2024
Bucky Irving Keeps Improving
Irving’s season totals are impressive: 579 rushing yards, 252 receiving yards, and five touchdowns. His 831 total yards lead among rookie running backs. What separates Irving is his efficiency and versatility, he has proven to be a weapon in the run-and-pass game.
Riding the success of capitalizing on every opportunity, the Oregon product is on the rise. Tampa Bay’s backfield leader in red zone touches (Irving) has earned the trust of his coaching staff. His consistent production — with five games of 15 or more fantasy points — also makes him a popular pick for fantasy football managers, especially with a favorable schedule ahead against defenses like Carolina and Las Vegas.
Also Read: Bo Nix Closes the Gap in Offensive Rookie of the Year Race
Usually, quarterbacks often dominate the ROY chatter, but Bucky Irving’s impact on the offense and his clutch ability make him a legit contender. If he continues on this trajectory, Irving will be in the conversation for Rookie of the Year, and it’s possible he will actually pull off the upset.
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