Bucs RB Rachaad White responds to ESPN's 'shaky' assessment

In 2022, the Bucs finished dead last in rushing yards (1,308) and rushing touchdowns (five). Leonard Fournette led the ground game with 668 yards and three TDs, with White complementing for 481 and a single score.

Now, with Fournette gone, White has taken over the reigns and been very vocal on his plans to turn things around. The 24-year-old predicted he’ll have “at least” 1,450 rushing yards and 700 receiving yards in 2023. No Buccaneer has achieved an 1,000-yard rushing season since Pro Bowler Doug Martin tallied 1,402 in 2015.

"I plan on being that 1,000-yard rusher this year," White said on "The Rich Eisen Show" in July.

White has the perfect opportunity to do so this season. With questionable QB play, an improved offensive line and no real threat to his expected workload, he’ll have every chance to step up, make plays and cement himself as the franchise guy he plans to be.

During his senior season at Arizona State University, White racked up an impressive 1,462 total yards and 16 touchdowns — amounting 30.5% of ASU's total offensive yards and 35.6% of total touchdowns. He's proven he can handle a workhorse load — now he just needs to do it on the biggest stage.

Tampa Bay management, coaches and players have all expressed confidence in White's capabilities, including veteran RB Chase Edmonds, who signed a one-year contract with the Bucs this offseason.

"He reminds me of myself, younger," Edmonds said during a training camp interview. 

He emphasized his plan to mentor White throughout the season, along with his backup responsibilities.