Bucky Irving

Last week, Bucky Irving returned and immediately cemented himself as the clear lead back again. He played 54.4% of the snaps with a 24.2% route share, 17 of 21 running back carries, and all three of the team's red zone rushing attempts. Irving finished with 19 touches and 81 total yards as the RB15 for the week. I expect his snap count to rise further this week with some more passing game involvement. Last week, Irving didn't break any explosive runs and had only 1.59 yards after contact per attempt, but he did have a 41% missed tackle rate (WOW!), so I expect his efficiency numbers to climb moving forward. Since Week 9, the Saints have allowed the sixth-most rushing yards per game, the eighth-highest missed tackle rate, and the eighth-most yards before contact per attempt.

Bucky Irving was thrown right back into the mix after his long absence (54% snaps). 17 carries for 61 yards (long of 13) with 2 catches for 20 yards (long of 20 yards). He also scored from the 1-yard line, but it came back on a holding call.
No other Bucs' RB had more than two carries. Rachaad White still drew three targets, but otherwise, this was completely back to "Bell Cow" Bucky. White did catch a 15-yard TD but it was called back on OPI.
Nothing but smooth sailing for Irving after just five games played so far in 2025. Guy has fresh legs.

After missing the last seven games, Bucky returned right where he left off. Finishing with 17 carries for 61 yards and a score on the ground, he added two receptions for 20 yards through the air. It is worth noting that he only played 52% of snaps; however, this was likely a result of easing him back in. Despite some tough losses over the last month, the Bucs offense is always a threat to go nuclear. With Mike Evans potentially returning this week, the entire team could take a step forward as they try to catch the red hot Panthers in the division. This week, they face the Saints, who have been league average against fantasy running backs over the last four weeks. Leading the run game on a great offense makes Bucky a weekly RB1, with a favourable schedule down the stretch.