This has been a year that some have considered a “bad” running back class, with not a single running back selected in the first round of the draft, but University of Oregon football's Bucky Irving has a chance to prove them wrong.
Irving was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and could be entering his rookie season with enthusiasm. He put up some numbers during his career at Oregon that are worthy of a closer look ahead of the draft. Either way, CBSSports has compiled a list of five running backs who are likely to play key roles in each team's offense, including Irving.
To some observers, Irving's performance at the combine workouts was not all that spectacular. His numbers were a little above average, but he appears to be a more athletic running back than he appears. In fact, Irving has proven himself to be a fast runner in space and is seen as a reliable back who could not only replace Ratchad White, but also give Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield another offensive weapon.
His size (5-foot-10, 195 pounds) might have been an issue for some teams, but Tampa Bay saw something more but wasn't sure they could get him in the draft.
“We thought he might have been picked a little earlier,” Buccaneers director of player personnel Mike Beal said. “He's a guy that we brought in on our 'Top 30' visit and spent time with. We thought he might have been picked on Day 2, but he fell off on Day 3. I think when I talked to him, when (we) called him, he was kind of moaning that he should have been picked earlier. We like that. He's exactly the kind of guy we were after. He fits that mold.”
Beal also noted that Irving rushed for 1,180 yards, had 11 scores and 56 catches en route to being named All-Pacific-12 second team in 2023. Irving led FBS backs in receptions, and Beal believes he can do even more in that department in the NFL.
“I think a lot of guys coming out of college, route running is an area they need to improve on, but when you look at traits like quickness and explosiveness to separate passes, you know they can be coached to improve and in our league, that improves a lot,” Beal said. “I think Bucky falls into that category. He's really good with his hands and he's good at getting the ball in space, which is a great trait. He's a little bit like Rachad in that respect.”
Tampa Bay's offseason efforts have been primarily focused on the running game. In addition to selecting Irving, the Buccaneers used their first-round pick to select Duke center Graham Burton. There's still work to be done to improve the rushing attack, but these additions should help.
It's hard to make early predictions about any player at any position, but Bucky Irving has impressed with his work ethic and drive to succeed as an NFL running back. Ducks fans have seen what he's capable of, but now it's time for him to shine on a bigger stage.
For the latest Oregon Ducks news, SI Oregon Ducks Follow the Oregon Ducks daily on SI Facebook and X.
