Peyton Barber Replaces Mike James

September 8th, 2016
Undrafted rookie RB Peyton Barber

Undrafted rookie RB Peyton Barber

The Bucs are going with an undrafted rookie as their No. 3 running back — at least for Sunday.

Peyton Barber out of Auburn is the guy. He flashed in preseason but certainly wasn’t anything special behind a sloppy second-team offensive line.

Promoted from the practice squad today after Mike James’ landing on injured reserve. Barber ran for 99 yards in the preseason averaging just 2.5 yards per carry. He also caught seven passes for 55 yards.

Hopefully, Barber only will be seen on special teams against the Falcons. Joe questions whether this is a permanent move, given that Tampa Bay brought in veteran Jacquizz Rodgers for a look earlier this week.

With Barber’s promotion, wide receiver Evan Spencer returns to the practice squad.

For the data nerds, Barber measured 5-10, 228 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine, and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.64 seconds.

19 Responses to “Peyton Barber Replaces Mike James”

  1. Buccaneer Bonzai Says:

    Great news. Like him more than the rumored option.

  2. TheBucsAnthem Says:

    I’m still in shock that they released mike james……I thought he was a great third back for us!

  3. Rojas Says:

    Would rather have McCluster, then Rodgers. But since there’s no news on McCluster, I think Barber is a better option than Rodgers also.

  4. Buc1987 Says:

    Mama needs a new pair of shoes…

  5. gilhealy Says:

    They’ll keep him on the roster till Monday. Then sign the guy they want. Some kind of salary move.

  6. Bucamania Says:

    I’m shocked too. Mike James is a perfect 3rd back. Any news on the injury?

  7. Erik w/ Clean Athletics & United Games - a new 'Interactive' Fantasy Sports app by the makers of Madden Football Says:

    I think Peyton Barber will be a stud NFL RB at some point.

    If Dougie ever goes down (God forbid), noone else on our roster has the combination of strength, agility, and speed that Barber has.

  8. Tampabaybucfan Says:

    Barber knows the playbook….we really didn’t have much other option….it would be dangerous to suit up only 2 RBs…..I think things won’t settle down until after Monday when there will probably be a RB signed…..either Rogers or McCluster.

  9. Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:

    Rojas I agree. And he look faster 4.6 when he was turning corner on two or three occasions in the cleveland game.

  10. Pickgrin Says:

    Good for Barber.

    Didn’t he come out early basically knowing he would have to fight for a spot as a UDFA instead of staying in school another year and being a likely draft pick – all because his mother is homeless and he needs to make $ for his family? Seems like I remember hearing that.

    I bet that 1st $28,000 game check will feel good in his hands next Tuesday compared to the $7k check he would have earned on the practice squad.

    Barber will be earning his $ playing on special teams so I hope he excels at it.

    I do wonder however if perhaps Koetter is intending to try Barber as the short yardage back on 3rd and 1 – 4th and 1 type situations?

  11. teacherman777 Says:

    I also like his big butt.

    He is playing for his homeless mother.

    He left Auburn early. (My alumni)

    He will get blessed and make miracles on the field. Just watch.

    Plus, his name is Barber. Coincidence? I think not!

    Go Bucs!

  12. Buc1987 Says:

    Pickgrin…yup…mama needs a new pair of shoes.

  13. LifeOfABucFan Says:

    teacherman..
    Love your thinking…say hello to Africa, or like I spell it Afrika..and contrary to popular believe, Afrikaners are good people..as well as Rhodies.

    And go Peyton!! I was really ticked when I thought he was gone from the Bucs..He’s also one of my favourite players..

  14. DB55 Says:

    87

    Prob a new bag and her hair did too.

  15. Dave Pear Says:

    If she’s homeless, she might just like a bed with a roof over her head.

  16. Buc1987 Says:

    Technically not homeless but living with relatives because she’s homeless.

  17. Dave Says:

    Good. I liked barber. Plus hames was hurt. He should get bs k with the team on ir

  18. Dave Says:

    Sorry for typos.
    I like Mike James a lot. He should end up back with the team.

  19. Brooks Says:

    Should’ve signed Mccluster. Great change of pace back and kick returner