Rachaad White has made a noticeable physical change heading into the 2025 season, trimming down to 212 pounds a few pounds lighter than his listed playing weight last year. It’s a calculated move by the Buccaneers’ lead running back, one that could significantly impact his performance as the team looks to build on a playoff appearance in 2024.
After a career low in yards per carry with 4.3, his focus is to increase his efficiency and explosiveness. Playing lighter could help him do exactly that.
The leaner frame should benefit White in multiple areas. First and foremost, it may allow for quicker acceleration and sharper lateral movement, two traits that can create more opportunities for chunk plays in both the run and pass game. While White proved last year he could handle a heavy workload, improving his burst through the hole and agility in space could make him even more dangerous, especially against faster, modern defenses. Additionally, the weight adjustment could enhance his stamina throughout the season.
As the Buccaneers move toward a more aggressive, vertical offense under new coordinator Josh Grizzard, tempo and versatility will be key, and White’s ability to stay fresh while maintaining a high snap count, sharing the backfield with Bucky Irving, will matter more than ever.
Playing at 212 pounds may also help in the passing game, where quicker footwork and fluid route running out of the backfield can open up new dimensions. If the drop in weight doesn’t cost him power in short-yardage situations, White could evolve from a dependable dual-threat into a dynamic, game-breaking weapon.
For Tampa Bay, the shift in White’s physique may be more than cosmetic; it could be the start of his next big leap in a contract year.
