Rachaad White’s stock took a hit in 2024 after rookie running back Bucky Irving emerged as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ lead back. Irving impressed with an average of 5.4 yards per carry — more than a full yard better than White’s career-best mark, also set last season.
In a cryptic social media post back in May, White appeared to hint that 2025 could be his final year in Tampa Bay. When speaking to reporters at minicamp, he addressed the post and offered some clarity on its meaning.
Rachaad White Addresses Cryptic Social Media Post
Having been usurped in Tampa Bay, White caused a stir with a social media post back in May. The post contained a photo of Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, with the caption “one last [ride].” The post led many to assume that White was referring to his Buccaneers future, with the running back potentially looking for a starting role elsewhere.
Rachaad White signaling that this is his last season in Tampa?
Looks like it. pic.twitter.com/QUTDOpzwH4
— Matthew Hewitt (@BucsTrackerNFL) May 22, 2025
When speaking with reporters at the team’s minicamp, White was asked to clarify the meaning of the post. The running back played down the significance of the message, claiming to have just been “vibing to some country music.”
“I was just vibing to some country music. I was just in the country mode; I had a cowboy hat on.”
White also revealed that he had cut weight during the offseason and was down to around 212 pounds, down from over 220. The running back stated that he’s becoming more focused on how he treats his body and hopes it will pay dividends on the field.
Does White Have a Future With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?
White has firmly taken a backseat to Irving in Tampa Bay. While his value as a pass-catcher was once a key asset, it was consistently overshadowed by his inefficiency in the run game. Irving quickly proved that the issue wasn’t the scheme, but rather execution — exposing White’s shortcomings with his own standout performance.
If White hopes to reclaim a starting role, it may need to come with another team — barring an injury to Irving. And with Irving also showing strong receiving ability, White has become increasingly redundant in Tampa’s backfield, though he could thrive as a complementary piece elsewhere.
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He may get that opportunity in 2026, when his rookie contract expires. Head coaches like Sean Payton and Andy Reid frequently use their running backs in the passing game. Both the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs have veteran running backs scheduled for free agency in 2026, and would both be good fits for White.
For now, however, White remains a Buccaneer and seems determined to make the most of his opportunities this season.
