Bucky Irving vs Jahmyr Gibbs: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions) averaged 19.3 PPG over 17 games in 2025, outscoring Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 12.3 PPG) by 7.0 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
The per-game difference of 7.0 points favors Jahmyr Gibbs, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Jahmyr Gibbs is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 77 targets into 616 yards, while Bucky Irving profiles as a more traditional rusher with 588 rushing yards and 1 touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Jahmyr Gibbs carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
One scheduling note: Bucky Irving is off Week 11 and Jahmyr Gibbs Week 5. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in running back for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
