The Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ backfield is undergoing a quiet but meaningful shift in 2025, and at the center of it is rookie Bucky Irving. The dynamic former Oregon standout has emerged as the team’s clear RB1 heading into the season, pushing last year’s starter Rachaad White and second-year back Sean Tucker into a new kind of competition this time, for the RB2 role.

Enter White and Tucker, two backs with contrasting styles who could end up sharing the RB2 load rather than one overtaking the other.

White’s strength remains in his pass-catching ability, route running, and comfort in third-down situations. He’s proven to be a reliable check-down option and has improved in blitz pickup traits that still hold value in a rotation. Tucker, meanwhile, brings a more traditional runner’s mindset. His compact frame, burst through the line, and no-nonsense style have made him a standout in short-yardage and red zone drills.

Tucker’s physicality and north-south running offer a strong complement to both Irving’s elusiveness and White’s versatility.

Rather than naming a true No. 2 back, Tampa Bay may opt for a situational split using White in passing downs and open-field schemes, while leaning on Tucker for downhill power and between-the-tackles work. It’s a modern approach that reflects the Bucs’ desire to be less predictable and more matchup-driven on offense.

With Bucky Irving poised to carry the load, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker forming a shared RB2 role might be the best-case scenario for both players and for a Buccaneers offense looking for balance and flexibility in 2025.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: What is the Bucs RB2 situation going to look like in 2025?