Personally, I’m not as concerned about Bucky as some local media outlets seem to be. This time of year often lacks significant football news, so any story garners attention. Yes, Irving dealt with injuries last year that affected his performance, but I don’t see the shoulder issue as a major concern heading into the new season or even training camp. I’d prefer he focus on rehabilitation during OTAs rather than pushing through and risking further injury. We need him at his best when the games really count.

The bigger question is whether Bucky will be continually plagued by injuries. As a smaller running back who runs hard and breaks through tackles aggressively, he may be more susceptible to injuries, which could accumulate over time. However, I believe the Bucs have already taken this into consideration by signing Kenneth Gainwell during free agency. Gainwell, also a smaller back, has the advantage of not having missed a single regular-season game in his career—83 games over four years.

Newly signed running back – Kenneth Gainwell

The Bucs aren’t attempting to replace Irving but rather ensuring they have a reliable RB1 available for every game. Gainwell is an explosive runner, an excellent pass catcher, and a solid pass blocker. If either player were to get injured, the team should be able to cope. However, if they manage to keep both healthy throughout the season, this position group could emerge as one of the best in the league.

https://www.buccaneers.com/video/danny-smith-on-his-special-teams-vision-press-conference

Have to think Special Teams will be improved.

Can easily see why players play for him.

Says he will "probably need an IV at the first game" lol

https://www.si.com/nfl/buccaneers/onsi/buccaneers-hit-with-realistic-projection-in-2026-espn-guide

OFFENSE

"Baker Mayfield having an average season"

"solid production from Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell"

"Emeka Egbuka leading the group and securing his first 1,000-yard receiving season in the NFL."

"The Bucs' offense doesn't quite return to the levels we saw in 2024, but they do enough to sit around the middle of the pack (16th)"

DEFENSE

"41.8 sacks on the season, with Yaya Diaby leading the way with a projected seven sacks."

"Antoine Winfield Jr. being the high interception guy for the Bucs' defense with two on the season."

"rank slightly above average across the league, finishing as the 13th-best defense in the league."

OVERALL

"would likely place them in the playoffs, albeit with a potential early exit."

ESPN's Projected Wins for Bucs: 9

It's an extremely realistic scenario for the Bucs, as they have finished with 10 or fewer wins in four of their last five seasons. Vegas oddsmakers also currently have the Bucs sitting around a win total of 8.5 to 9 wins.

I keep comparing his film to Trotter’s. The athleticism isn’t even close. J-Rod moves in space so much better. His coverage skills are elite for a MLB. He can run side-to-sideline. 

Trotter is a bo LB. He’ll be fine in that spot, but J-Rod can do so much more. Trotter really should play early downs and come out in passing situations. 

This had less to do with Trotter and more to do with J-Rod. I’m a fan first and hope for the bests but what could have been… Bain and J-Rod… 1 and 2…

3 of 4 games at home to start might help the cause.

on the other end though, two of the last three division matches are on the road.  Last year wasn't it 3 of 4 at home?

Obviously Kante Scott has a cast right now. But what uh we saw Damonte Kapart out today. What is he dealing with?

We knew about Kante Scott since that was predraft, but Damonte Kapart is new.

Injuries need to go visit some other teams.

Bain was Bain.  A bit of a mumbled but all business and I dig his approach.  Scott gave me early Warrick Dunn vibes.  He talks quickly in a fairly nervous meter.  He’ll get the hang of this. Trotter was the standout IMO.  It’s clear he is all football all the time and he’s very dialed in and polished from a media perspective.  Clearly it’s too early to see if this translates to anything but I was very impressed with his answers and his approach to the game.  

It’s gonna be a long three months. 

Good breakdown on draft strategy.

In short, reaching is really bad... Getting a steal is only marginally good.