Buccaneers News
Tucker’s Fantasy Value Hinges on Irving’s Injury Status
Tampa Bay running back Sean Tucker has emerged as a viable fantasy option during Bucky Irving’s extended absence in the last few weeks. Irving remains sidelined with foot and shoulder injuries.
Tucker carried the ball 21 times for 95 yards and one touchdown over the past two weeks. His workload increased significantly as the coaching staff is trying to find ways to get more out of their running game.
Bucky Irving participated in limited practice on Wednesday and Thursday but was ruled out for Sunday’s game at Buffalo. Head coach Todd Bowles said Irving must prove he can absorb contact before returning. The Bills’ defense allows 5.4 yards per carry to opposing running backs.
Tucker became the first back to eclipse 50 rushing yards against New England in Week 10, gaining 53 yards on nine attempts. He ran for 42 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries against New Orleans in Week 8. Those performances came while Rachaad White averaged just 3.7 yards per carry this season. The depth chart favors White for receiving work and pass protection. White caught five passes for 16 yards against the Patriots and has 26 receptions for 133 yards this season. Tucker has seen minimal involvement in the passing game.
Fantasy managers considering Tucker face a week 11 gamble. It’s now or never. Irving’s limited practice participation signals progress toward a return. Once Irving is cleared, Tucker will drop back to third on the depth chart behind Irving and White.
Tucker signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent in 2023 after rushing for 1,060 yards at Syracuse. He earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors in Week 6 of last season with 192 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns against New Orleans. That breakout performance has not translated into consistent work this year.
The Buccaneers’ offense has struggled with Irving unavailable. Tampa Bay lost to New England 28-23 last Sunday and fell to 6-3 on the season. The team leads the NFC South by two games over Carolina despite offensive inconsistency.
Irving rushed for 430 yards from scrimmage through four games before the injury. His 5.6 yards per carry average this season far exceeds White’s efficiency. Irving also provides receiving ability with five catches for 102 yards in Week 4 against Philadelphia. Tucker offers value only while Irving remains out. The Bills game represents his likely final week as a flex option before Irving’s expected return. Tampa Bay travels to Los Angeles to face the Rams in Week 12.
White and Tucker will split backfield duties Sunday in Buffalo. Fantasy managers rostering Tucker should monitor Irving’s practice status closely. A full practice Friday would signal an imminent return to action.
The Buccaneers need production from their ground game. Tucker averaged 4.0 yards per carry on 32 attempts this season entering Week 11. White has logged 87 carries for 325 yards. Neither back has matched Irving’s explosiveness.
Tucker belongs on waiver wires in most formats once Irving returns. His standalone value disappears when the depth chart resets. Fantasy managers seeking desperate running back help can deploy Tucker this week with Irving officially ruled out. The favorable matchup against Buffalo’s vulnerable run defense provides upside.
