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There are times where it feels hard to believe that this could be the last year in Tampa Bay for running back Rachaad White after four seasons. We've seen an evolutionary career arch for the Bucs' big back with White going from Leonard Fournette's backup as a rookie in 2022, to eventually becoming the top back for the team the next year, finishing just 10 yards shy of 1,000 yards rushing. Only to then becoming the forgotten man for a while as last year's fourth-round, Bucky Irving, and became an instant sensation and the eventual starter by midseason.

Heading into a contract year as Irving's backup, White's value to the Bucs still remains high. He's the best pass blocking back that Tampa Bay, and one of the best at picking up blitzing linebackers and DBs in the entire NFL. Plus, White is the most dynamic route-running back on the roster, making him important to the Tampa Bay offense even if he's overlooked.

Bucs RB Rachaad White – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Yet teams typically don't pay big money contracts to second-string running backs and third-down backs, thus making it a compelling situation heading into White's contract year.

Rachaad White Is Lighter And Quicker This Bucs' Camp

While Rachaad White has been calm and even-keeled about not overthinking this very important season, his efforts so far in training camp have shown that he is primed for what could be his best NFL season yet in terms of efficiency – even if it comes with fewer touches due to Bucky Irving's emergence. There's only so much physicality that teams can have during training camp, but White has found ways to rip some big runs and be faster when either hitting a hole or getting to his route. He's also getting more involved on special teams, adding more for the team.

"He's lighter, he's quicker, he looks great back there returning punts, he looks great in the backfield," Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles said. "He's our best blitz pickup guy. He's moving well – I like where he is mentally and physically right now. His cuts are quicker. He's always had great hands and great vision running the football. He's been great."

Bucs RB Rachaad White and QB Baker Mayfield – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

White revealed earlier this offseason that he lost at least 10 pounds to increase his mobility going into this year. Everyone has really taken notice of it and White believes that he is faster due to his efforts. White looks more comfortable than he ever has been in a Tampa Bay uniform.

"I feel like it," White said about being faster. "Our coaching staff feels like it. [More] stamina, being able to finish plays, being able to get in and out of cuts, and being [more] reactive. To play ball, I feel like I got a lot better at that by losing weight."

White missed some time due to a pulled groin in the preseason opener versus Tennessee, but returned to practice on Tuesday and should be ready to go for Tampa Bay's season opener in Atlanta on September 7. The team will likely hold White out of the preseason finale as a precautionary measure, especially after losing wide receiver Jalen McMillan to a severe neck strain for possibly half the season in last week's preseason game at Pittsburgh.

How Far Can This Buccaneers Offense Go?

Despite injuries to left tackle Tristan Wirfs and wide receivers Chris Godwin Jr. and Jalen McMillan, there are still big expectations for Tampa Bay's offense this year. The team that averaged just under 30 points per game last season and wants to top it this time around. Whether it's vets like Mike Evans, Rachaad White and Cade Otton, or young stars such as Bucky Irving, Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson, everybody is going to be involved.

Bucs RBs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

"It was pretty good last year," White said. "I think that we can take it to a whole other level. I think the good part about it is that we have a lot of guys that are good in space. Having Mike and Chris out there – they do what they do – but when we get the ball out in space, just making plays and being playmakers."