The NFL Free Agency 2024 updates are full of thrill with one from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looking to alleviate the workload on running back Rachaad White. Bucs under head coach Todd Bowles might be gearing up with another running back to boost their roster. The situation has intensified after the release of Leonard Fournette, prompting the team to bring in another RB talent. Primarily, the Bucs intend to support White and ensure his longevity after a season with mixed offensive results, per the HC.
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The Buccaneers’ need for a complementary running back arises from their desire to manage White’s workload effectively. While White has shown promise and ability on the field, it’s essential to prevent overuse. With a total cap liability of $215,214,724 and team cap space of $43,682,067, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the financial flexibility to explore options in free agency, to address their running back depth.
The Buccaneers’ offense, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield and featuring weapons like Mike Evans, has demonstrated flashes of brilliance. However, they struggled with consistency throughout the season. White was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round (91st overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft. Subsequently, he made an immediate impact on his NFL debut.
His contributions in both the rushing and receiving game have been notable, with a massive impact on the offensive scheme. Now, as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers might want more RB talent in their pocket there might be some good free agents available.
Running Backs Available for Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In the 2024 NFL free agency class, several notable running backs are expected to hit the open market, including Tony Pollard, Josh Jacobs, and Austin Ekeler. Pollard, who turned 27 in April, is coming off a season where he returned from a broken leg. He rushed for over 1,000 yards for the second consecutive year. In the 2023 season, Pollard recorded 1,005 rushing yards with an average of 4.0 yards per carry. Additionally, he contributed 55 receptions for 311 receiving yards and six rushing touchdowns.
As per reports, Pollard played the 2023 season on a $10.1 million franchise tag. But, it seems unlikely that the Dallas Cowboys will apply the tag again, especially considering the $12.1 million. Therefore, his versatility as a runner and receiver makes him an attractive option for the Bucs to enhance backfield depth.
Another option might be Josh Jacobs, who turned 26 earlier this month. He experienced a decline in production in 2023 compared to his All-Pro 2022 season. Despite posting career lows in several categories, Jacobs managed to accumulate 805 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns. He also amassed 37 receptions for 296 receiving yards, over 13 games. He played the 2023 season under a franchise tag worth $11.791 million, and NFL rules mandate a minimum pay increase of 20 percent if tagged again. This could make him the highest-paid RB in 2024 if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were to bring him over.
Austin Ekeler is another option known for his versatility and ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. In the 2023 season, Ekeler totaled 1,064 yards from scrimmage and six total touchdowns over 14 games. His current annual average value is $6 million, and projections suggest he would receive a slight pay bump in free agency. This makes him a good option for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite his top position in terms of salary.
Overall, the availability of top-tier RBs like Pollard, Jacobs, and Ekeler in free agency presents intriguing opportunities for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Their ground game and offensive versatility can help blow the steam off significantly from Rachaad White.
