Fourth-year running back Rachaad White has had a decent start to his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his stock took a hit in 2024 after rookie running back Bucky Irving emerged as the lead back. Irving averaged 5.4 yards per carry in 2024, more than a full yard better than White’s career-best mark of 4.3 yards per carry, also set in 2024.
White most likely won’t start for the Buccaneers in 2025, and instead of handing him an extension in 2026, Tampa Bay could look to draft another rookie as insurance behind Irving.
Why the Buccaneers Could Replace Rachaad White in the 2026 NFL Draft
White has taken a backseat to Irving in Tampa Bay’s backfield. His value as a pass catcher was once a key asset, but was overshadowed by his struggles in the run game. Irving quickly proved the issue wasn’t Tampa Bay’s scheme but rather execution, exposing White’s shortcomings with his own breakout performance.
White finished the 2024 season with 613 rushing yards on 144 carries, adding 51 receptions for 393 yards. Irving, meanwhile, rushed for 1,122 yards on just 208 carries while catching 47 passes for 392 yards. The rookie’s efficiency made White’s role redundant in many situations.
If White hopes to reclaim a starting role, it may need to come with another team, barring an injury to Irving. Irving’s strong receiving ability makes White increasingly expendable in Tampa’s backfield. However, White could thrive as a complementary piece elsewhere and will get the chance to do so when his rookie contract expires in 2026.
Who Could Replace White if He Leaves Tampa Bay?
If White departs, the Buccaneers could find his replacement with the No. 85 pick according to PFSN’s latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft, selecting Texas A&M running back Le’Veon Moss . The 6′, 215-pound runner brings explosive ability and could be effective on early downs.
Moss enters 2025 as a senior but hasn’t had much chance to show his capabilities yet. He recorded just 27 carries as a freshman, rushing for 114 yards and one touchdown. The 22-year-old saw increased playing time as a sophomore, recording 96 carries for 484 yards and five touchdowns.
The 2024 season was when Moss started looking like an NFL-caliber running back before a knee injury in early November cut short his campaign. He was the leading rusher for the Aggies before being sidelined, finishing with 121 carries for 765 yards and 10 touchdowns. His 6.3 yards per carry average ranked among the top in the SEC before his injury.
LE’VEON MOSS OFF TO THE RACES 🔥
A 75-YARD TD TO START THE HALF 👏 pic.twitter.com/W6rWTwZgto
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 5, 2024
Moss still needs to refine his technical skills, which could cause his draft stock to rise or fall during the upcoming college season. His potential points to a player who could initially contribute in a committee role and gradually step into the lead job in a few seasons.
However, as long as Irving remains productive in Tampa Bay, Moss would likely have to settle for a complementary role. If he develops into a high-end starter like Irving, Moss could become a valuable trade asset for the Buccaneers down the road. The team has shown they’re willing to move on from running backs when better options emerge, as evidenced by White’s current situation.
