bucky irving
rb • oregon
5'10" • 194 lbs
rb • oregon
5'10" • 194 lbs
Bucky Irving was Oregon's yards from scrimmage leader in both 2022 and 2023. In 2023, he ran for 1180 yards in 14 games at 6.3 YPC with 11 touchdowns, adding 56 catches for 413 yards and 2 more touchdowns through the air. He'll likely draw comparisons to Tyjae Spears and Jahmyr Gibbs due to his size and receiving ability.
As a runner, I feel his game leaves a bit to be desired. I like how he reads out his blocks and he is shifty in short areas, but he generates little push when running between the tackles and often goes down at first contact. I don't see him as someone that can be effective with a full NFL workload, but I do feel he can find success in a supplemental role. He navigates open field well and his long speed is good.
Irving shines in pass protection - he gives it great effort and rarely gets exposed for missing blocks despite his smaller frame. It's tough to keep him in the backfield, though, because he is an excellent receiver. Oregon wasn't afraid to line him up all over the field, but he was somewhat limited in his route tree. He's got good hands and transitions from receiver to runner smoothly. He is definitely a threat after the catch.
I love him as a third down or two-minute back, and I think he'll find himself a spot in a rotation early because of his pass blocking ability. I'm sure he'll get some reps as a kick or punt returner, too.
6.13 • 4th round