Amid a critical juncture in their season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are getting huge contributions from an unlikely source – their rookie class. With the team riding a 4-game winning streak and battling for playoff position, first-year standouts like running back Bucky Irving, receiver Jalen McMillan, center Graham Barton and defensive back Tykee Smith are proving instrumental to the Bucs’ resurgence.
Irving’s Electrifying Emergence
Undeterred by nagging back and hip issues, rookie rusher Bucky Irving gashed the Chargers’ top-ranked scoring defense for 117 yards on just 15 carries on Sunday. His explosive running has quickly made him the Bucs’ most dynamic offensive weapon.
Bucky is definitely taking advantage of his opportunities. There’s a different level with some of these explosive plays that he’s created on his own. That’s a special player that we have.
– QB Baker Mayfield on Bucky Irving
Irving’s 498 yards gained after contact trails only superstars Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley. His otherworldly elusiveness is reflected in his 36.8% missed tackle rate, the highest in the NFL.
McMillan Making His Mark
After an inconsistent start, Jalen McMillan has emerged as a legitimate second option behind star Mike Evans. The third-round pick has scored in three straight games, coinciding with the Bucs’ win streak.
Ever since that bye week, I’ve just been on a different level, different mindset, and just ready to help this team in any way I can.
– Jalen McMillan on his strong play of late
McMillan credits a “reset” over the bye week for unlocking his potential. His big-play ability was on full display with his tone-setting touchdown against the Chargers.
Barton & Smith Bolster Both Sides
- Graham Barton, the 26th overall pick, has been a rock on the O-line. He dominated against the Chargers, allowing only 2 pressures.
- DB Tykee Smith punctuated his return from injury with a momentum-swinging interception vs the Raiders in Week 14.
Coach Todd Bowles attributes the rookies’ rapid rise to the evolving expectations for first-year players in today’s NFL.
The way the league is going right now, coming out of college you don’t get the luxury of sitting everybody for a year or two behind somebody else.
– Coach Todd Bowles on integrating rookies
As the Bucs battle for their playoff lives, the stellar play of their promising rookie class provides a glimpse into a bright future in Tampa Bay. Irving, McMillan and company aren’t waiting for their moment – they’re seizing it right now.
