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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have one of the more underrated running back rooms in the NFL heading into the 2026 season, and recent praise from Pro Football Focus highlights just how valuable the group could become. In a breakdown of the league's best pass-catchers under pressure during the 2025 season, PFF highlighted both Bucky Irving and new Buccaneers running back Kenneth Gainwell for their ability to give quarterbacks a reliable option when defenses are creating chaos.
For Tampa Bay, the recognition shows that its backfield can bring much more than just production on the ground.
Irving, who dealt with injuries during the 2025 season, still showcased why the Buccaneers are excited about his future. Despite missing time, he proved to be one of the NFL's most dangerous receiving backs when given opportunities. His ability to make defenders miss in space and turn short passes into explosive plays gives Baker Mayfield another weapon in the passing game.
While Irving became known for his vision and explosiveness as a runner during his rookie season, his impact as a receiver could be just as important moving forward. With defenses increasingly focused on limiting explosive plays, having a running back who can consistently create after the catch is a major advantage.
The Buccaneers also added Gainwell, who brings a different skill set to the backfield.
During his time with the Steelers, Gainwell earned praise for his reliability as a pass catcher, especially in situations where quarterbacks were under pressure. His ability to win matchups against linebackers and provide a dependable outlet could make him a valuable piece of Tampa Bay's offense. Following the departure of Rachaad White, the Buccaneers needed to reshape their running back room, and the combination of Irving and Gainwell gives them plenty of versatility. One brings explosive playmaking ability, while the other provides experience and consistency as a receiving threat.
With Tampa Bay expected to lean on a younger core offensively, the running back duo could become a major part of the team's plans. If both players stay healthy, the Buccaneers could have one of the league's most dangerous backfields when it comes to creating mismatches in the passing game.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Both Bucs RB praised for their work under pressure by PFF
Continue reading...
For Tampa Bay, the recognition shows that its backfield can bring much more than just production on the ground.
Irving, who dealt with injuries during the 2025 season, still showcased why the Buccaneers are excited about his future. Despite missing time, he proved to be one of the NFL's most dangerous receiving backs when given opportunities. His ability to make defenders miss in space and turn short passes into explosive plays gives Baker Mayfield another weapon in the passing game.
While Irving became known for his vision and explosiveness as a runner during his rookie season, his impact as a receiver could be just as important moving forward. With defenses increasingly focused on limiting explosive plays, having a running back who can consistently create after the catch is a major advantage.
The Buccaneers also added Gainwell, who brings a different skill set to the backfield.
During his time with the Steelers, Gainwell earned praise for his reliability as a pass catcher, especially in situations where quarterbacks were under pressure. His ability to win matchups against linebackers and provide a dependable outlet could make him a valuable piece of Tampa Bay's offense. Following the departure of Rachaad White, the Buccaneers needed to reshape their running back room, and the combination of Irving and Gainwell gives them plenty of versatility. One brings explosive playmaking ability, while the other provides experience and consistency as a receiving threat.
With Tampa Bay expected to lean on a younger core offensively, the running back duo could become a major part of the team's plans. If both players stay healthy, the Buccaneers could have one of the league's most dangerous backfields when it comes to creating mismatches in the passing game.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Both Bucs RB praised for their work under pressure by PFF
Continue reading...
