As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers continue to build a competitive roster for the future, several young standouts under the age of 25 are already making their mark. From explosive second-year players to rising defensive anchors, the foundation is taking shape.
Here are the top three Buccaneers under 25.
Bucky Irving, Running Back (Age: 22)
A dynamic playmaker out of Oregon, Bucky Irving entered his rookie season with the kind of versatility that could energize Tampa Bay’s backfield. And energize he did, becoming the first Buccaneers running back to rush for over 1,00 yards since Doug Martin. At just 22 years old, Irving brings elite burst, balance, and soft hands out of the backfield, which makes him an actual dual threat anytime he takes the field. With the return of the entire 2024 offensive line as well as Chris Godwin Jr’s underrated blocking, look for Bucky only to get better.
Graham Barton, Center (Age: 23)
The Buccaneers invested heavily in protecting their quarterback of the future, and Graham Barton looks like a cornerstone on the offensive line. Drafted in 2024, Barton has quickly adapted to NFL speed and has shown the intelligence, toughness, and versatility to play multiple positions up front.
At just 23, he’s already earned praise for his ability to anchor the line, handling a multitude of blocking schemes from day one. Barton is the kind of physical, steadying presence who can anchor Tampa’s trenches for the next decade, the perfect heir to Ryan Jensen.
Calijah Kancey, Defensive Lineman (Age: 24)
Drafted in the first round in 2023, Calijah Kancey is proving to be a disruptive force on the interior defensive line. Still only 24, Kancey combines rare quickness off the snap with relentless effort, making him a headache for opposing offensive linemen. While he was slowed by injuries each of his first two years with his calf, he came on strong late and has since developed into one of the team’s most consistent pass rushers. With continued growth and experience, Kancey has the potential to become one of the NFL’s premier interior disruptors and might live up to the “Baby Aaron Donald” nickname.