TAMPA, Fla. — Sean Tucker’s path to the NFL was anything but conventional. Tucker was considered one of the top running backs entering the 2023 NFL draft as a one-time unanimous All-American, but right before on-field workouts, Tucker was diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect. As a result, he went undrafted.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made him a priority once the draft was over, giving him guaranteed money. After training camp, Tucker was slated to be the backup running back behind Rachaad White. In September of his rookie season, he logged 15 carries for 23 yards. He never got another handoff the rest of the season.
After a disappointing campaign, the Buccaneers drafted Bucky Irving. As a result, Tucker's spot on the roster was in question.
Tucker dazzled through most of training camp earning his place as the third-string running back on the team. Tucker has not had many opportunities to shine this season sitting behind White and Irving, but in Week 6 with Rachaad White injured, Tucker stepped up in New Orleans earning 192 yards from scrimmage.
As a result, he earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He was just the second running back in Buccaneers history to earn the honor as an undrafted selection, joining Bobby Rainey.
In a league that often favors the high-profile names and first-round picks, Sean Tucker is a testament to the power of perseverance. If Tucker continues to develop, he could become an integral part of the Buccaneers offense for years to come.
Tucker spoke with sports director Evan Closky in this week's edition of The One Buc. The 10 Tampa Bay sports team airs this segment every Thursday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 11 p.m.