Is Irving an Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate?

Is the Bucs back being overlooked?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had one of the worst rushing offences last season. It was an issue that many people had picked up on in the offseason, and noted as a potential shortfall for the Bucs in 2024.

In order to remedy this, the Buccaneers selected running back Bucky Irving as the 125th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft.

The Chicago native, who played in college at Minnesota and Oregon, has emerged as a star for the Bucs this season. After a difficult start to the season, Irving has since evolved into a huge threat.

With the season coming towards its end, Irving is making a push for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

The award was initially expected to be won by Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Poor play – as well as the Bears’ disappointing season – has pushed him almost entirely out of the conversation.

The current rankings put Bo Nix as favourite, with Jayden Daniels in hot pursuit. Next up is Brock Bowers, with Irving currently the fourth favourite.

Why Irving?

According to Pro Football Reference, Irving is on course to break 1,000 yards this season, and get 10+ touchdowns.

He has played a crucial role in multiple games, and has taken the starting running back role from Rachaad White.

Irving was the six running back to be taken in the 2024 NFL draft. Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranked Irving as the fifth best running back prospect going into the draft, and described him as an “incredibly efficient player”.

In comparison to the other 19 running backs selected, Irving has had by far the best rookie season, as can be seen in some of the most important stats.

Here is how he compares to other rookie running backs in major stats.