Receiving Back New England Should Target In The Draft
The New England Patriots have many essential holes to fill in the first two days of this draft, but a player who is available early on day three should be a priority at that point. Running back isn't the most valuable position anymore, but the pass-catching back was a major factor when this offense was right.
Antonio Gibson can definitely help fill this role this year, but a player like Bucky Irving gives it a second gear with the ability to run routes and have soft hands. The NFL season is long, and running backs get banged up, so increasing the amount of talented depth isn't an issue on day three.
Who Is Bucky Irving?
Bucky is a 5'9 192 pound back who ran a 4.55 40-yard dash. This 40 time doesn't match up to Irving's true game speed. He made big plays during his time in college, playing in 38 games, racking up 475 carries gaining 2,952 yards for 6.2 yards per carry and 20 rushing touchdowns.
"Irving's playmaking ability is marked by his hyper-efficiency and potential to turn any play into a touchdown. Exhibits elite speed for his position, contributing to his explosiveness on the field. He accelerates quickly and maintains speed, given his size - making him a challenge for defenders to take down. Demonstrates competitiveness and determination and fights for extra yards." NFLDraftBuzz.com
That's not all, though. He also earned 105 targets, catching 94 of them, gaining 768 yards and 5 receiving touchdowns. His biggest asset is his contact balance and low center of gravity, which make him extremely difficult to tackle. Getting him out in space will be crucial to his development as a pro.
How Can Irving Fit Within New England's Scheme
Bucky Irving has the ability to crush in AVP's offense, especially if he is eased into the fold like he would be working alongside Rhamondre and Antonio Gibson. He has elite short-area quickness and receiving prowess that reminds me of Shane Vereen.
Unlike Vereen, pass protection is a weak spot in his game, but he has the ability to improve in that area—we just haven't seen it yet. He gets caught from behind in college sometimes, but bringing a player like him down with the new hip-drop tackle rules will be theoretically harder.
Irving is a patient runner who typically hits his holes with intense force, rarely does the first man making contact is the man to bring him down. The way our line will be zone-blocking is perfect for making space for Irving to operate as many of his big plays come from the middle of the field.
End Of Rant
Upon analyzing Irving's tape, I was impressed with his exceptional talent, dedication, and work ethic. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions on the field is truly remarkable. I am convinced that he will be a valuable asset to New England's future success, and I am excited to see him in action on the field.
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