Undrafted Bucs rookie making push for RB1

Sean Tucker Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Buccaneers rookie making RB1 push after health scare caused him to go undrafted

By Vinny Somma | Last updated 8/25/23

A two-time 1,000-yard rusher and all-time single-season rushing leader in Syracuse history, running back Sean Tucker's talents have never been questioned. Unfortunately, a concerning heart condition detected during the pre-draft process stripped away Tucker's chances of hearing his name called on draft day.

Tucker has since been cleared for all football activities and is making waves in training camp with the Buccaneers as the undrafted free agent continues to inch up the depth chart.

According to SI's Ben Meyerson, the Buccaneers had Tucker splitting first-team reps with projected starter Rachaad White during a segment of Thursday's practice.

Sean Tucker split 1st team reps with Rachaad White in Buccaneers practice today

Keeping a close eye on Tucker, who is emerging from UDFA to a prime contender for the RB2 role in Tampa

Via @ByBenMeyerson of @SInow pic.twitter.com/IcVKMPVVrh
— Sam Sherman (@Sherman_FFB) August 24, 2023

Tucker's play during camp and preseason has clearly left a lasting impression on the organization. Through two preseason games, the 21-year-old has flashed a legitimate three-down skillset, leading all Buccaneers running backs in rushing yards (47), receiving yards (21) and receptions (4).

Sean Tucker would have never went undrafted if it wasn’t for the medical concerns

Now fully cleared and ready to rock you are seeing the talent that is Sean Tucker
pic.twitter.com/vMr0IJOsM8
— Joe O’Leary (@TheHQNerd) August 21, 2023

Tampa Bay is looking to replace the all-purpose production left behind by former starter Leonard Fournette, who the team released back in March. While injuries plagued "Playoff Lenny" last season, Fournette still averaged 1,228.5 yards from scrimmage and totaled 16 touchdowns for the Buccaneers over the last two years.

White is still expected to open the season as Tampa Bay's starting running back, but don't be surprised if Tucker quickly elevates himself to become the 1B option in the Buccaneers backfield — and potentially overtakes White in the pecking order as the season progresses.

A second-year pro out of Arizona State, White rushed for 364 yards over his eight starts as a rookie in 2022, failing to find the endzone on his 91 carries. While White's 3.73 ypc on the season might give Bucs fans reason to pause, he did haul in 50 receptions. His prowess in the passing game should keep him a focal point of Tampa Bay's offense, regardless of Tucker's uptick in usage.

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