Bucky Irving

Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles told The Athletic’s Dan Pompei that the game has slowed down for Bucky Irving, who improved his pass protection and “cleaned up” his footwork this offseason.

Pompei’s touching profile on Irving’s relationship with Buccaneers offensive consultant Tom Moore details Irving’s diligent offseason habits and, critically, indicates Irving could play even better than he did in his 2024 rookie season. Buccaneers RB coach Skip Peete celebrated Irving’s “great vision,” elusiveness and ability to generate explosive gains. Irving finished as the PPR RB13 last season, despite officially starting just three games and playing a backup role on passing downs. Should his improved pass protection earn him a larger passing down snap share, he could compete for a mid-to-high RB1 finish.