Fantasy Football Week 8 RB Rankings and Bucky Irving Injury Update

This article provides Week 8 fantasy football insights with start/sit running back recommendations based on PPR scoring for the 2025 NFL season. Bijan Robinson leads the fantasy RB rankings, while Rachaad White ranks seventh and is recommended as a “start” due to his increased role. Players like Cam Skattebo and D’Andre Swift also have favorable matchups, whereas Alvin Kamara and others are advised to sit. A key focus is Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, who has missed three consecutive games with foot and shoulder injuries. His return may come as early as Week 8 or after the Week 9 bye. In Irving’s absence, Rachaad White has stepped up impressively, rushing for over 100 yards and three touchdowns in two games, while also contributing in pass protection. The Buccaneers, despite injuries, continue to perform well and rely on White to complement Baker Mayfield’s strong passing game. Managing Irving’s recovery carefully is crucial for Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes.

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Summary

Fantasy football insights and Bucky Irving’s injury impact on Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense

This article offers detailed analysis for fantasy football players focusing on running back matchups and player performance based on a PPR scoring system for Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season. Additionally, it provides an in-depth update on Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, his injury status, and the team's adjustments in his absence. The piece also highlights the rise of Rachaad White as the lead back for Tampa Bay during Irving’s recovery.

Key points:

Fantasy Football Week 8: Start and Sit Running Back Recommendations

The column focuses on players who may either exceed or fail to meet fantasy expectations in Week 8, steering clear of elite stars like Josh Allen and Bijan Robinson. The weekly player rankings highlight the top running backs to start, led by Bijan Robinson facing the Dolphins and Jonathan Taylor vs. Titans. Other valuable starters include Christian McCaffrey, Josh Jacobs, and newcomers such as Cam Skattebo, who has impressed with a 42% touch share and strong fantasy production.

Start ‘Em Highlights

Cam Skattebo (Giants): Leveraging a significant role in the backfield, Skattebo has averaged 19.2 points in recent weeks, including a dominant 31-point game against the Eagles defense.
Rachaad White (Buccaneers): With Bucky Irving sidelined, White has assumed primary backfield duties, facing a Saints defense vulnerable to running backs scoring 14+ points.
D’Andre Swift (Lions): Averaging an impressive 7.1 yards per rush, Swift faces the Ravens, who have conceded high fantasy points to running backs.
Breece Hall (Jets): Despite the Jets’ struggling offense, Hall’s matchup against the Bengals gives him fantasy value.
J.K. Dobbins (Ravens): Although his scoring has dipped recently, his matchup against the Cowboys’ defense, which has allowed multiple double-digit performances, justifies starting him.

Additional recommended starters include Jordan Mason, Quinshon Judkins, and Javonte Williams.

Sit ‘Em Highlights

Alvin Kamara (Bucs): A shadow of his former self, Kamara has averaged just 10.8 points per game, and the Buccaneers defense has held top-tier backs effectively.
Chuba Hubbard (Panthers): Limited production in recent starts and a tough matchup against Buffalo’s stout defense suggest caution.
Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots): Facing one of the stingiest run defenses, Stevenson’s recent solid performance may not continue.
Tony Pollard (Cowboys): His declining outputs and limited touches, combined with the Colts’ strong run defense, indicate a weak fantasy week ahead.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt (Raiders): After two underwhelming games, a challenging matchup against the Chiefs further diminishes his outlook.

Others advised to sit include TreVeyon Henderson, Nick Chubb, and Brashard Smith.

Bucky Irving’s injury and impact on Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have enjoyed a strong start to the 2025 NFL season, sitting atop the NFC with a 5-1 record, largely propelled by Baker Mayfield’s MVP-level play. However, the team’s rushing attack has been hindered by the absence of second-year running back Bucky Irving, who is sidelined by foot and shoulder injuries.

Irving’s injury timeline and status

Irving has missed Weeks 5 through 7 due to injuries sustained before Week 5. He has not practiced since Week 4 and was seen in a walking boot leading up to Week 5. Tampa Bay has opted not to place him on injured reserve, a move that would have mandated a minimum four-game absence. This decision suggests the team anticipates an earlier return, potentially as soon as Week 8 against the New Orleans Saints, or the alternative is a cautious return post-bye in Week 10. Head coach Todd Bowles remains optimistic but is taking Irving’s recovery day by day.

Rachaad White steps up as lead back

In Irving’s absence, veteran running back Rachaad White has taken on the lead role in the Buccaneers’ backfield. Over the past two games, White has rushed for over 100 yards and scored three touchdowns while also contributing in the passing game. Despite averaging a modest 3.4 yards per carry, White’s toughness and willingness to fight for yards have garnered praise from offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard and teammates alike.

Josh Grizzard highlighted White’s physical running style and key plays that sustained drives, while left tackle Tristan Wirfs applauded White’s selflessness and effectiveness in pass protection, describing him as a crucial teammate and player. Center Graham Barton described White as a “stud” and a “Swiss army knife,” emphasizing his patience, ability to break tackles, and contributions on third downs and in screen plays.

Upcoming challenges and outlook

The Buccaneers face a challenging prime-time game against the Detroit Lions, a 4-2 team also grappling with injuries. Tampa Bay will heavily rely on White to complement Baker Mayfield’s passing attack, aiming to overcome the Lions’ physical front.

Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard has adapted to a roster riddled with injuries, with only tight end Cade Otton remaining as the starting skill-position player from Week 1. The team’s back-to-back 30-point performances against tough defenses underscore their resilience and capacity to adjust.

The management of Irving’s recovery will be critical for the Buccaneers’ playoff aspirations. A premature return could risk aggravating his injuries, while patience could ensure he returns fully healthy and ready for the critical second half of the season.

Summary Q&A on Irving’s status:

Conclusion

The Week 8 fantasy football recommendations provide actionable insights for lineup decisions, emphasizing players with the best matchups and recent performance trends. Simultaneously, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ situation highlights the importance of depth and adaptability within an NFL team amid injury challenges. Bucky Irving’s recovery will be closely monitored, while Rachaad White continues to demonstrate his value as a reliable and versatile backfield leader for the Bucs’ strong 2025 campaign.

Bucky Irving Injury Update: Wednesday's Report Provides Small Hint at Week 8 Status

Questions and answers

Q: Bucky Irving injury update

A: Bucky Irving recently suffered a minor injury but is expected to return soon with no major setbacks reported. The team is closely monitoring his recovery, but he has been limited in practice sessions. His availability for upcoming games remains likely, barring any complications.

Q: Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back depth

A: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have solid depth at the running back position, featuring a mix of young talent and experienced players. Rachaad White leads the group with a promising skill set, supported by backups who contribute in passing situations and special teams. This depth provides the Buccaneers flexibility in their rushing attack and injury resilience.

Q: Week 8 fantasy football running back rankings

A: For Week 8 fantasy football, running back rankings highlight top performers such as Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, and Christian McCaffrey based on recent production and matchups. Mid-tier backs like Rachaad White and Tony Pollard also present strong value depending on game situations. Injuries and team dynamics continue to influence these rankings significantly.

Q: Rachaad White fantasy football outlook

A: Rachaad White has emerged as a valuable fantasy football asset thanks to his dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. He is expected to see increased usage in the Tampa Bay offense, especially if injuries to other running backs persist. His upside makes him a strong consideration in both standard and PPR formats moving forward.

Q: How injuries affect Tampa Bay offense

A: Injuries significantly impact the Tampa Bay offense by reducing the effectiveness and versatility of key players, particularly at skill positions like running back and wide receiver. When starters are sidelined, the team often relies on less experienced backups, which can disrupt offensive rhythm and limit play-calling options. This can lead to a more conservative approach and less explosive plays.

Key Entities

Bucky Irving: Bucky Irving is a running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. He contributes to the team's ground game alongside other backs like Rachaad White.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional NFL team based in Tampa, Florida. They feature a diverse backfield including players like Bucky Irving and Rachaad White under head coach Todd Bowles.

Rachaad White: Rachaad White is a running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers known for his versatility in rushing and receiving. He plays a significant role in the Buccaneers' offensive attack alongside teammate Bucky Irving.

Todd Bowles: Todd Bowles is the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leading the team's strategy and development. He oversees player roles including those of running backs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White.

Josh Grizzard: Josh Grizzard is an NFL coach associated with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization. His coaching role supports the development and performance of the team's offensive players.

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