It took the Tampa Bay Buccaneers all of a few days into the offseason workout program to get fans alarmed about standout running back Bucky Irving.
Todd Bowles said that Irving could return from his offseason procedure in the "summer or fall" which leaves an extremely vague window of time for him to return. As it stands right now, Kenneth Gainwell and Sean Tucker would be the 1-2 punch that fills in for Irving if he stays injured.
The Bucs would do well to at least consider making a move for one of these three veteran running backs, as they are still free agents and will cost next to nothing to bring in until Irving is back.
3 free agent RBs Bucs must sign after concerning Bucky Irving update
3. Miles Sanders
Sanders was given every opportunity to win the starting running back job in Dallas last season, but Javonte Williams managed to considerably dominate him on the field. The former Eagles pick is still unattached, and the Bucs could bring him in s veteran depth just in case something goes wrong.
If Tampa Bay makes this signing, the Bucs will be telling the rest the NFL that they are more than happy with Gainwell as the starting running back and Irving is not expected to miss any extended time. If pressed into action, Sanders can at least hold down the fort.
2. Najee Harris
Harris wasn't the most fleet of foot player in his prime, and with an Achilles injury suffered last year taking even more of his juice away, it makes sense as to why he remains unsigned. The Bucs shouldn't expect him to be anything more than a short-yardage thumper after his career has gone sideways.
Harris may need to look for an OC like Zac Robinson, who managed to get some worthwhile production out of players like Tyler Allgeier in Atlanta despite their lack of breakaway speed. Harris is one of the few veterans who could earn a semi-regular role in the offense when Irving his healthy.
1. Nick Chubb
Chubb managed to make the Texans forget all about Joe Mixon last year. Even though he is a shell of what he was in his Cleveland prime, his production has been more than effective enough to warrant one more look on a playoff team. Chubb's north-south skill is still worth taking a chance on.
If the more pessimistic timeline becomes reality and the Bucs are without Irving for an extended period, look for Tampa to make a more long-term addition to the backfield. Even in this state, Chubb is the kind of player opposing defenses will need to worry about.
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