Buccaneers Tender Backup RB Sean Tucker on 1-Year Deal

The team has placed a restricted free-agent tender on running back Sean Tucker, keeping him in Tampa Bay for another season.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:20pm

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed a restricted free-agent tender on running back Sean Tucker, meaning he will return to the team for his fourth season. Tucker has been a solid backup for the Buccaneers, amassing 651 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns over his first three years. However, the team also signed former Steelers RB Kenneth Gainwell to a 2-year, $14 million deal, which could cut into Tucker's playing time going forward.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers are looking to solidify their running back depth after the departure of Rachaad White. Keeping Tucker provides continuity, but the addition of Gainwell signals the team is looking to upgrade the position. This move highlights the team's efforts to build a well-rounded backfield for the upcoming season.

The details

The Buccaneers placed the lowest restricted free agent tender on Tucker, meaning other teams can make him offers, but Tampa Bay would have the right to match any deal. Tucker has been a productive backup, but the Buccaneers also signed Gainwell to a lucrative 2-year contract, likely making him the new RB2 behind starter Leonard Fournette. Tucker may now be relegated to a third-string role, but his power and experience could still earn him goal-line and short-yardage opportunities.

  • The Buccaneers tendered Tucker on March 11, 2026.

The players

Sean Tucker

A 4th-year running back who has served as a backup for the Buccaneers since going undrafted out of Syracuse in 2023.

Kenneth Gainwell

A free agent running back who signed a 2-year, $14 million contract with the Buccaneers after spending his first 3 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Leonard Fournette

The Buccaneers' starting running back who will remain the lead back in their offense.

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What they’re saying

“Bucs are tendering Sean Tucker on a one year deal as a restricted free agent.”

— Rick Stroud, Sports Reporter

What’s next

The Buccaneers will now wait to see if any other teams make an offer to sign Tucker. If he receives an offer, Tampa Bay will have the opportunity to match it and retain him.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers are working to solidify their running back depth, keeping a familiar face in Tucker while also adding a new weapon in Gainwell. This move suggests the team is committed to building a versatile and competitive backfield for the 2026 season.