Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell have given the Tampa Bay Buccaneers one of the NFL’s most intriguing backfields entering the 2026 season. As expectations rise around the Buccaneers’ offense, the running back tandem has earned recognition among the league’s top duos, reflecting the versatility and production both players bring to the field.
Irving emerged as one of Tampa Bay’s most important offensive weapons last season. His ability to create explosive plays, gain yards after contact and contribute as a receiver helped establish him as a centerpiece of the Buccaneers’ attack. Opposing defenses frequently struggled to contain his combination of vision, acceleration and playmaking ability. As a result, he enters the new season with growing expectations and the opportunity to further solidify his status among the league’s elite running backs.
Dec 11, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) runs the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
The addition of Gainwell has only strengthened the outlook for Tampa Bay’s rushing attack. Throughout his NFL career, Gainwell has demonstrated the versatility teams covet in modern offenses. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver creates matchup problems for defenses while giving the coaching staff flexibility in how it deploys personnel. Those traits complement Irving’s skill set and provide the Buccaneers with multiple ways to attack opponents.
One reason the duo has received increased attention is the balance they provide. Many teams rely heavily on a single running back, but Tampa Bay possesses two players capable of making meaningful contributions. That depth becomes increasingly valuable over the course of a long season, particularly as injuries and workload management become important factors. The ability to rotate productive backs can help keep both players fresh while maintaining offensive efficiency.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell Named Among Best RB Duos in NFL
Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) runs against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Irving and Gainwell were recently identified as one of the best running back duos in the league ahead of the new NFL season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Moe Moton for Bleacher Report.
Irving and Gainwell are smaller running backs, so they may cede short-yardage touches to Sean Tucker, who scored seven rushing touchdowns (six from within nine yards of the goal line) last year.
Nonetheless, Irving and Gainwell can produce big gains. The former averaged 5.4 yards per carry in his rookie term, and the latter averaged 4.7 yards per rush attempt last season.
The Buccaneers believe a strong running game will play a significant role in their success during the upcoming campaign. Establishing consistency on the ground can ease pressure on the passing attack and create more favorable situations throughout games. With Irving expected to remain a featured weapon and Gainwell adding another dynamic element, Tampa Bay enters the season confident in the strength of its backfield.
As training camp approaches, optimism surrounding the Buccaneers continues to grow. The recognition earned by Irving and Gainwell reflects the respect they have garnered around the league and the potential they possess as a tandem. If both players perform at the level many expect, Tampa Bay could boast one of the NFL’s most productive rushing attacks. That possibility gives the Buccaneers another reason to believe they can remain a serious contender throughout the 2026 season.