In a year full of exciting rookie running backs, one name is starting to separate from the pack as fantasy football playoffs approach: Bucky Irving. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ first-year phenom turned in another stellar performance in Week 12, racking up 27.1 fantasy points on 151 total yards and a touchdown. That outburst has fantasy managers wondering – is Irving now the rookie RB to roster for the stretch run?
Irving’s Week 12 Dominance
Facing a stout New York Giants defense, Irving showcased the skills that made him a coveted fantasy draft pick. He gashed the Giants for 87 rushing yards and a score on just 12 carries, demonstrating his game-breaking ability. But Irving also flashed his receiving chops, snagging 6 catches for 64 yards to finish as the RB4 on the week.
According to a team source, the Bucs’ coaching staff has been impressed with Irving’s rapid development as an all-around weapon. “Bucky’s giving us production as both a runner and pass-catcher,” the source said. “He’s earned more touches in this offense moving forward.”
Climbing the Rookie RB Ranks
Irving’s Week 12 eruption solidified his place atop the rookie RB hierarchy for fantasy purposes. It marked his fifth game with 15+ fantasy points and seventh reaching double-digits. That level of consistency is rare for a first-year back.
Consider how Irving compares to his highly-touted rookie peers:
- He’s scored 20+ fantasy points three times; no other rookie RB has more than one such game
- Irving leads all rookies in receptions and receiving yards
- His 7 games with 10+ fantasy points paces the rookie RB class
“If he stays healthy, Bucky has a real shot to be the top-scoring rookie RB,” said one respected fantasy analyst. “The dual-threat ability gives him such a high weekly floor.”
Favorable Upcoming Schedule
Another factor working in Irving’s favor is Tampa Bay’s soft remaining slate. According to our SOS metrics, the Bucs have the 2nd-most favorable schedule for RBs from Weeks 13-17. That stretch includes tantilizing matchups vs Carolina and Las Vegas.
Those games could provide Irving a chance to pad his stats and push for Rookie of the Year honors. With the Buccaneers’ playoff hopes fading, the team may prioritize getting their young stud more involved to evaluate him for 2025.
Rookie Risers & Fallers
Looking beyond just Irving, Week 12 provided more clarity on this year’s crop of rookie skill position players for fantasy. Some other key risers and fallers to note:
- Jayden Daniels, QB, WSH: Put up 30.4 fantasy points and is now over 2K pass yards and 500 rush yards. Firmly in the Rookie of the Year discussion
- Caleb Williams, QB, CHI: Threw for a career-best multi-TD game against the blitz and averaged a season-low 2.42 secs/throw – positive signs for his development
- Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, NYG: Disappointed with just 9 fantasy points in a cupcake matchup vs Tampa. Losing work to veterans and lacks bankable volume
The arrow is pointing up for young QBs like Daniels and Williams, who are progressing nicely. Tracy, on the other hand, appears to be getting phased out in New York. He can’t be trusted in starting lineups at this critical juncture.
Bucky’s Rest-of-Season Outlook
All signs are pointing to a huge finish for Bucky Irving in his scintillating rookie season. He’s clearly established himself as the top fantasy asset in a crowded rookie RB class brimming with talent. If he’s on your roster, he needs to be locked into lineups going forward.
Irving’s emergence has been one of the true feel-good stories of the 2024 fantasy campaign. Astute managers who stashed him on draft day or snagged him off waivers are being handsomely rewarded. Bucky has the look of a league-winner, so buckle up and enjoy the ride!
