Drawing praise from new coach

Coach Bruce Arians praised Barber when addressing the media at Wednesday's NFL Scouting Combine, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: Barber has averaged just 3.8 yards per carry over the last two seasons, but he finally showed some elusiveness in 2018 by popping off four runs of 20-plus yards after logging just two such carries in his previous 31 games. While he's still a work in progress as a runner on many levels, Arians seems to place more value on Barber's improvement to that rather than the tailback's overall inefficiency. With that said, Arians will also have 2018 second-rounder Ronald Jones to utilize in the…read more

Finishes season in solid fashion

Barber rushed 15 times for 66 yards and brought in his only target for two yards in the Buccaneers' 34-32 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: Barber's solid final game was representative of what he proved capable of this season when he received decent blocking and logged sufficient carries. Having secured the starting job over second-round pick Ronald Jones II coming out of training camp, the third-year pro remained the lead back throughout 2018 and finished with 234 carries for 871 yards (3.7 yards per rush) and five touchdowns while adding 20 receptions (on 29 targets) for 92 yards (4.6 YPC) and another score. Barber was able to…read more

Tough sledding on ground in loss

Barber rushed 17 times for 43 yards and brought in all three of his targets for 13 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-20 loss to the Cowboys on Sunday.

Analysis: Barber was repeatedly stymied on the ground by a stingy Cowboys front, leading to fourth sub-50-yard tally of the last five games. Barber has been at 3.0 yards per carry or worse in all four contests, as the Tampa Bay offensive line has consistently had trouble creating running lanes. The 24-year-old will try to close out the season on a strong note against the Falcons in Week 17.

Solid effort in loss

Barber rushed 19 times for 85 yards and a touchdown and brought in both of his targets for four yards in the Buccaneers' 20-12 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.

Analysis: As has been the case in multiple games this season, Barber put together a solid game as far as efficiency is concerned, but his touches were once again limited by game flow. Barber's three-yard touchdown in the second quarter was his fourth in the last five games, and he's now averaged 4.5 yards or better in four of his last eight contests. The four-year pro figures to remain in firm possession of the lead-back role over the final two games of the season, and he'll look to continue closing out…read more

Struggles for running room in loss

Barber rushed 14 times for 42 yards and brought in one of his two targets for two yards in the Buccaneers' 28-14 loss to the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: It was yet another frustrating afternoon on the ground for Barber, who found running room at a premium against one of the NFL's stingiest run defenses. The second-year back now has been under 50 rushing yards in three straight games, and he's managed no better than Sunday's 3.0 yards per carry in any of those contests. Barber has a firm grasp on the lead-back role, but there may be no other team in the league at the moment in which that job has less value. He'll have an uphill battle to improve…read more

Scores for third straight game

Barber carried 16 times for 45 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Panthers. He also lost a fumble in the 24-17 win.

Analysis: Barber averaged just 2.8 yards per carry and did little outside a long gain of 17 yards. He helped put the game away with a 1-yard touchdown plunge in the fourth quarter, giving him three rushing touchdowns in as many weeks. He could have had another score, but he fumbled at the 1-yard line to tarnish a long, methodical drive. Barber has topped 70 rushing yards just three times this season, but he continues to receive touches near the goal line thanks to the team's prolific passing attack.…read more

Cleared for Carolina game

Barber (ankle/shoulder) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Panthers, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber sandwiched full practices Wednesday and Friday around a limited session Thursday. His availability never seemed to be in question, but there is some cause for concern regarding his future workload after coach Dirk Koetter said fellow running back Ronald Jones will be active this week. The rookie second-round pick poached some work from Barber in Weeks 4 through 8 before a hamstring injury knocked him out of the lineup. It may not happen this weekend, but the Buccaneers probably want to…read more

Practice participation scaled back

Barber (ankle/shoulder) was listed as a limited participant in Thursday's practice, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: After opening the week as a full participant in practice Wednesday, Barber's reps were scaled back while he continues to nurse a pair of injuries. The same issues limited Barber's practice time heading into Week 11, but he suited up for both of the Buccaneers' games since that time, logging 36 carries for 153 yards. With no indication Barber is dealing with any sort of setback, it's assumed that he was restricted primarily for maintenance purposes. He should be on track to handle his usual lead…read more

Spearheads rushing attack in win

Barber rushed 18 times for 47 yards and a touchdown and brought in both of his targets for 16 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-9 win over the 49ers on Sunday.

Analysis: Although he encountered tough sledding on the ground, Barber was able to burrow into the end zone from two yards out just before the midway point of the third quarter for his third touchdown of the season. Barber's 2.6 yards per carry marked the fourth time this season he's been under a 3.0 figure, but the 24-year-old continues to be free of any competition for his lead-back duties. He'll look to make it three straight games with a score against the Panthers in a Week 13 divisional battle.

First 100-yard game of season

Barber rushed 18 times for 106 yards and a touchdown and brought in both of his targets for four yards in the Buccaneers' 38-35 loss to the Giants on Sunday.

Analysis: Barber capitalized on the favorable matchup versus the Giants' vulnerable run defense, equaling a season high with a 28-yard run and eclipsing the century mark for the first time on the season. The 24-year-old has actually averaged 4.5 yards per carry or better in three of the past four contests, but game script has often conspired to limit his rushing opportunities. The third-year pro has yet to top 20 carries on the season, but on the brighter side of things, he has zero competition for…read more

Cleared for Week 11

Barber (ankle/shoulder) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: With Ronald Jones (hamstring) out for at least one more week, Barber doesn't have much competition for carries against a Giants defense ranked 19th in yards allowed per carry (4.4) and 24th in rushing yards allowed per game (122.6). Of course, we've already seen Barber faceplant in some favorable matchups, averaging just 3.7 yards per carry and one catch per game in a pass-heavy offense.

Remains limited participant

Barber (ankle) was a limited participant during Thursday's practice, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Analysis: After appearing on the Buccaneers' initial Week 11 injury report with ankle and shoulder concerns, only the former issue was responsible for his limited showing Thursday. Even that doesn't seem to be much of a worry for Barber at this juncture, as he's been tending to the ankle injury since the Buccaneers' Week 7 win over the Browns and hasn't missed any game action because of it. Now almost a month removed from the setback, Barber is expected to practice fully Friday and avoid an injury…read more

Limited Wednesday

Barber (ankle/shoulder) was limited at Wednesday's practice, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber has tended to an ankle injury for a few weeks at this point, but the shoulder issue is new. Still, he was able to handle individual drills at least, so it's a good bet he'll have the designations removed by the final injury report for a fourth consecutive week. Barber could have less competition for reps Sunday against the Giants if rookie Ronald Jones, who was limited in practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury, remains hindered.

Picks up 66 yards

Barber rushed for 61 yards on 13 carries and added a 5-yard catch during Sunday's 16-3 loss to Washington.

Analysis: This marked a ho-hum outing for Barber, who has just one 100-yard game and two touchdowns on the season. The third-year back has held value by essentially being the only game in town, entering Sunday with 54.5 percent of Tampa Bay's rushes on the season. Thus Jacquizz Rodgers' eight-catch, 102-yard performance on Sunday -- though it included a costly fumble -- is worth keeping an eye on. With Barber averaging just 3.7 yards per carry on the season, Tampa Bay -- now in a free fall -- might opt…read more

Good to go

Barber (ankle) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have a designation on the final injury report for Sunday's game against Washington, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber played through the same injury last week, picking up 40 yards on 13 touches in a 42-28 loss to the Panthers. He should get a few more opportunities this weekend, as Ronald Jones (hamstring) is still unavailable and the Redskins may struggle to stay competitive while dealing with a slew of significant injuries. Of course, Barber hasn't done anything to inspire confidence.

Limited for second straight day

Barber (ankle) was listed as a limited participant at Thursday's practice, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber first popped up on the Buccaneers' injury report in Week 8 with the injury, but he's proceeded to suit up in both of the team's last two contests. There doesn't seem to be any overwhelming concern about Barber's status for Sunday's game against the Redskins, so the Buccaneers may just be exercising caution in limiting his reps for the first two practices of the week. Tampa Bay probably has some added incentive to be careful with Barber with top backup Ronald Jones (hamstring) trending…read more

Still bothered by ankle

Barber (ankle) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber played through the same injury in a 42-28 loss to Carolina on Sunday, taking 11 carries for 31 yards and catching two of three targets for nine yards. He'll have a better chance to take advantage of Ronald Jones' (hamstring) likely absence in Week 10, as the Buccaneers will draw a home matchup with the injury-riddled Redskins. Jones was a non-participant Wednesday and will most likely be ruled out for the weekend at the conclusion of the Bucs' final practice Friday.

Compiles 40 total yards in Week 9 loss

Barber rushed 11 times for 31 yards and brought in two of three targets for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 42-28 loss to the Panthers on Sunday.

Analysis: As has been the case in most games this season, the Bucs were forced to abandon the running game due to the fact they were facing a sizable deficit. That led to Barber's fifth game with under 40 rushing yards this season, as well as a decline of eight carries from his Week 8 total against the Bengals. Barber has naturally had a difficult time getting into any sort of rhythm with his inconsistent week-to-week usage, something he'll hope to work toward rectifying against the Redskins in Week 10.

Logs full practice Thursday

Barber (ankle) practiced fully Thursday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: For most of the season, game flow has dictated the Buccaneers favor the pass over the run, but Barber actually had his most productive performance of the year during the team's attempted comeback this past Sunday at Cincinnati. Tying his season high with 19 carries, he churned out 85 yards and one touchdown. The workload may have been made possible by the early departure of rookie Ronald Jones II, who is expected to miss 1-to-2 weeks as a result of a hamstring injury. With his own health not in…read more

Limited on initial injury report

Barber (ankle) is listed as a limited participant at Wednesday's practice.

Analysis: This marks a step in the right direction after Barber didn't practice in any capacity last Wednesday. He returned to limited participation Thursday and full participation Friday, eventually rushing for a season-high 85 yards in Sunday's 37-34 loss to the Bengals. Barber will have a good chance to reach double-digit carries in Week 9 at Carolina, as fellow running back Ronald Jones (hamstring) is expected to miss at least one game and quite possibly more.

Solid performance in loss

Barber rushed 19 times for 85 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 37-34 loss to the Bengals on Sunday.

Analysis: Barber gave a solid accounting of himself in the loss, posting a season-high rushing total and getting into the end zone for the first time this season on a 1-yard run. It's largely flown under the radar, but Barber now has gained 80-plus yards on the ground in two of his last three games. The 24-year-old has had his share of struggles, but he's still head and shoulders above rookie Ronald Jones II, who's done virtually nothing with his opportunities and is dealing with a hamstring injury that…read more

Lined up for starting role

Barber is taking reps as the Buccaneers' starting running back in warmups prior to Sunday's game against the Bengals, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Barber's status for Week 8 looked to be in some peril after he was held out of practice Wednesday, but he cleared up any concern by advancing to full participation Friday. Though Barber will retain his starting role, he could see a more reduced workload than usual in light of his underwhelming production (3.5 yards per carry) to date. The Buccaneers split the backfield work in fairly even fashion in the Week 7 win over the Browns, as Barber played 35 offensive snaps to rookie Ronald Jones' 29.

Cleared to face Bengals

Barber (ankle) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have any designation on the final injury report for Sunday's game in Cincinnati, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Barber should be fine to handle his typical workload after managing a limited practice Thursday and a full session Friday. There's still reason to worry about Ronald Jones taking more carries as the season moves along, given that Barber is averaging just 3.5 yards per tote and has yet to score a rushing touchdown. Of course, Jones hasn't provided much cause for optimism with just 45 yards on 17 carries (2.6 average).

Expected to play

Coach Dirk Koetter said Barber (ankle) will play Sunday at Cincinnati, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Analysis: Barber returned to practice Thursday as a limited participant and then suited up for Friday's session. The Bucs apparently aren't concerned about his Week 8 availability, but we'll still have another update when the team releases its final injury report. Ronald Jones could get more work if Barber struggles to play through the injury.

Practicing Friday

Barber (ankle) took part in Friday's practice, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: It won't be clear until after practice how much Barber was able to do, but the fact he is on the field for a second straight day bodes well for his chances of playing Sunday against the Bengals. The Buccaneers will reveal his official status for Week 8 after Friday's practice concludes.

Upgrades to limited Thursday

Barber (ankle) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: While Barber has earned an upgrade in his activity level following Wednesday's absence from practice, it's unclear if he's trending toward an appearance Sunday in Cincinnati. Friday's injury report will relay his odds to suit up Week 8. Next in line for touches out of the Buccaneers backfield are Ronald Jones II and Jacquizz Rodgers.

Tending to ankle injury

Barber didn't practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: On Monday, coach Dirk Koetter acknowledged the existence of an injury for Barber, per Tom Krasniqi of Sports Radio 620 WDAE Tampa Bay. However, neither Koetter nor the Bucs touched on the nature of the issue until the release of Wednesday's injury report. Barber's health is thus something to watch as the week goes on to learn if he's a candidate to sit out Sunday in Cincinnati. If Barber ends up missing his first game of the season, rookie Ronald Jones II likely would see a significant uptick…read more

Likely banged up in win

Coach Dirk Koetter didn't deny that Barber suffered an injury in Sunday's 26-23 overtime win over the Browns, Tom Krasniqi of 95.3 FM Tampa Bay reports.

Analysis: When asked about the possibility of an injury to his starting running back, Koetter simply stated that the team will release an injury report Wednesday. The Bucs would lean on Ronald Jones and Jacquizz Rodgers if Barber were to require an absence, but there doesn't seem to be much hope for the running game regardless of which player is getting carries. Tampa travels to Cincinnati for a Week 8 matchup with the slumping Bengals.

Struggles again in Week 7 OT win

Barber rushed 11 times for 30 yards and failed to come up with either of his two targets in the Buccaneers' 26-23 overtime win over the Browns on Sunday. He was also tackled for a safety.

Analysis: Barber was responsible for the first points of the game, except they went on the other team's ledger. The third-year back was pinned back behind the goal line on a carry from the one-yard line in the first quarter, a microcosm of what's been a mostly frustrating campaign for the 24-year-old. Barber has now posted 30 yards or less in four of six contests, although rookie Ronald Jones, despite getting in for a short touchdown Sunday, hasn't been anywhere near productive either. Therefore, Barber…read more

Has season-best game

Barber rushed for 82 yards on 13 carries and added 24 yards and a touchdown on four catches during Sunday's 34-29 loss to Atlanta.

Analysis: Barber's five-yard touchdown grab brought Tampa Bay within a score in the closing minutes of the game. It was not to be, but Barber still came away with a season-high 106 total yards and his first score of the season. Whether he can keep it rolling against Cleveland is uncertain, but he certainly represents the Bucs' best option on the ground. The Browns boast a dangerous pass defense but a middle-of-the-road run defense.

Minimal production in blowout loss

Barber rushed seven times for 24 yards in the Buccaneers' 48-10 loss to the Bears on Sunday. He also brought in one of two targets for six yards.

Analysis: Barber's workload was expected to be affected by the active status of second-round pick Ronald Jones II, and the rookie actually ended up outpacing him in carries by three. However, a game script that saw the Buccaneers facing a 35-point deficit by halftime likely had something to do with Jones' extra reps. The upcoming bye week will afford the Tampa coaching staff plenty of time to evaluate the backfield pecking order heading into a Week 6 divisional clash against the Falcons.

Workload potentially affected by Jones activation

Barber will share backfield touches with second-round pick Ronald Jones II in Sunday's Week 4 tilt against the Bears.

Analysis: Veteran Jacquizz Rodgers will also be active, although he's received minimal carries over the first three games even with Jones not suiting up. Barber hasn't been any great shakes in a lead-back role over the first three games, but game flow hasn't worked in his favor on many occasions either. The division of labor in the Buccaneers' backfield remains far from certain heading into Sunday's game, but Barber is likely to still see a fair share of carries with Jones in uniform for the first time…read more

Used sparingly against Steelers

Barber rushed eight times for 33 yards and failed to haul in either of his two targets in Monday night's 30-27 loss to the Steelers.

Analysis: Barber's usage fell victim to the Buccaneers trailing by 20 points at halftime, thus requiring them to pass more in the second half. While most of Barber's production came on an 18-yard run, he still averaged over four yards per carry, making it his most efficient performance through three weeks. Nonetheless, with his team throwing 50 times, the volume obviously wasn't there for Barber, who will hope for a more balanced attack Week 4 versus the Bears.

Struggles for running room

Barber rushed 16 times for 22 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-21 win over the Eagles on Sunday. He also secured one of two targets for seven yards.

Analysis: After gaining a respectable 69 yards on 19 carries in the opener versus the Saints, Barber could barely muster a yard per carry versus a tough Eagles defensive front. However, the passing attack took center stage for the second consecutive contest with Ryan Fitzpatrick once again eclipsing the 400-yard mark, so Barber's lack of production wasn't overly noticeable. Nevertheless, with 2018 second-round pick Ronald Jones II in the wings, Barber may need to step up his production Week 3 against the…read more

Solid in season-opening win

Barber rushed 19 times for 69 yards in the Buccaneers' 48-40 win over the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: As expected, Barber served as the unquestioned lead back, with Jacquizz Rodgers and Shaun Wilson accounting for the only other three running back touches on the ground. The passing game surprisingly took center stage Sunday courtesy of Ryan Fitzpatrick's record-setting performance, but Barber served as a highly effective complement to his exploits. While he wasn't targeted in the passing game with the downfield aerial attack working so effectively, the third-year back has proven his worth as a…read more

Outplays Jones again

Barber took five carries for 34 yards and a touchdown in Friday's preseason game against the Lions.

Analysis: Barber once again proved far more effective than Ronald Jones in the running game, though the rookie made up for his lack of rushing production -- six carries for seven yards -- with a 37-yard gain through the air. Barber got the start and did all his damage on the opening drive, with Jones and Jacquizz Rodgers filling in thereafter. Barber seems to have locked down the Week 1 starting job, but any struggles early in the season could reopen the door for Jones to mount a challenge. The Bucs will…read more

Receives vote of confidence

Barber is performing like a starting running back so far this preseason, according to coach Dirk Koetter, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: Barber has totaled 53 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries through the Buccaneers' first two exhibition outings. He's done so while rookie second-rounder Ronald Jones has managed just 11 yards on his 12 totes. Along with that superior production, Barber's ability in the passing game currently trumps that of Jones, who caught 32 passes in three seasons at USC. With Jones still figuring out how to showcase his explosiveness in the NFL, Barber is poised to enter the regular season as the team's…read more

Another solid effort in win

Barber rushed six times for 32 yards and secured his only target for three yards in the Buccaneers' 30-14 preseason win over the Titans on Saturday.

Analysis: Earlier in the week, reports emerged that Barber was viewed as the leader in the clubhouse for the No. 1 running back job to open the season over second-round pick Ronald Jones II. Saturday's results seemed to lend further credence to that notion, as Barber once again outpaced his rookie competition by a notable margin. The third-year pro led the Bucs' backs in both carries and yards and displayed some of his newfound quickness with an 18-yard rumble on the second play of Tampa's second…read more

Ahead of Jones so far

Barber has an early edge for the starting job over Ronald Jones, Rick Stroud of The Tampa Bay Times reports. "Peyton is our starter," Buccaneers coach Dirk Koetter said Monday. "We're definitely going to use Ronald Jones and take advantage of what he's going to do. We do have the two veteran backs behind him. Again, we've got three more preseason games. Let's just let it sort out a little more."

Analysis: Both running backs found the end zone in Thursday's preseason opener at Miami, but Jones was held to nine yards on eight carries while Barber gained 21 yards on four totes. In addition to his comments about Barber being viewed as the starter, Koetter used Monday's talk with the media to stress the importance of using multiple running backs. The competition for carries will continue throughout the preseason and potentially into the regular season, while Charles Sims, Jacquizz Rodgers and Shaun…read more

Solid in exhibition debut

Barber rushed four times for 21 yards and a touchdown and secured both of his targets for minus-1 yard in the Buccaneers' 26-24 preseason win over the Dolphins on Thursday.

Analysis: As expected, Barber drew the start before giving way to second-round pick Ronald Jones II after the first two drives, the first of which he capped off with a four-yard touchdown. The third-year back was solid in his limited opportunities, tallying a long run of nine yards while showcasing some of the quickness the slimmer physique he showed up to camp with affords him. It was an ideal start to the preseason for Barber, who will try to prevent Jones from eating into too many of his touches to…read more

Checks into camp slimmer

Barber, who played as high as 238 pounds last season, checked into camp at 225 pounds and has been noticeably quicker, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports. "I felt that was one thing I needed to mature on was really taking my weight serious," he said. "It wasn't a lot harder than the past couple of years, but I worked out differently."

Analysis: The third-year back walked into camp as the No. 1 running back, although the presence of second-round pick Ronald Jones II looms large behind him on the depth chart. Barber relays that he was particularly careful about his diet this past offseason and also made it a point to get his running in at the hottest times of the day, leading to the weight loss. The former Auburn Tiger, who's worked his way up the depth chart after making the Bucs as an undrafted rookie in 2016, looks likely to see a…read more

Despite the Bucs utilizing a second-round selection on Ronald Jones II, Barber's diverse skill set is projected to afford him a consistent role in the coming season, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports. "I think he has a high ceiling," said Buccaneers running backs coach Tim Spencer. "Peyton can catch the ball and he can run routes even though he is a good-sized back. I like the way he runs, I like his attitude, I like the way he's learning and being able to pick up things."

Analysis: An undrafted free agent in 2016, Barber ultimately took the lead-back role from the since-departed Doug Martin for the last five games of 2017. The former Auburn Tiger compiled 335 rushing yards at a clip of 4.3 yards per tote during that span, making sharper cuts and breaking more tackles than he had during his 55-carry rookie campaign. The addition of Jones II naturally gives Barber serious competition for carries, but Smith reports that the most likely scenario is the two players splitting…read more

Barber figures to face stiff competition from 2018 second-round pick Ronald Jones II, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Barber was the Bucs' top backfield option by the end of last season, arguably by default. He was undeniably serviceable -- albeit unspectacular -- over his five games as the lead back, compiling 335 yards at a solid clip of 4.3 yards per carry. Big plays, one of the primary assets that Jones brings to the table, were almost completely absent from Barber's repertoire, as he logged just one run of 20 or more yards all season. In contrast, Jones posted at least one run of 40-plus yards in 12 of 40…read more

Buccaneers coach Dirk Koetter said Tuesday that Barber is the team's starting running back at the moment, ESPN.com's Jenna Laine reports.

Analysis: Barber breathed some life into a pathetic Tampa Bay running game when he closed out the season with five straight performances featuring at least 12 carries, 51 rushing yards and 3.9 yards per carry. It was enough to leave him as the team leader in rushing yards at 423, even though Doug Martin (now a Raider) had 30 more carries. With Charles Sims still unsigned, the Bucs' backfield consists of Barber, Jacquizz Rodgers and Dalton Crossan. Barber is the clear favorite for early down work among…read more

Barber, an exclusive rights free agent, agreed to a one-year, $630,000 contract with the Buccaneers, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: The deal is merely a formality, as Barber won't have a shot to sign elsewhere until 2019, when he'll be a restricted free agent. He currently sits atop the depth chart at running back, but it won't come as any surprise if the Bucs land an upgrade in free agency or the draft. Doug Martin was released in February, while Charles Sims is set to become an unrestricted free agent Wednesday. Barber impressively closed out last season with five straight weeks recording at least 51 rushing yards and 3.9…read more

Barber is one of the Buccaneers' top internal options to replace Doug Martin, who was released Tuesday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The 23-year-old Barber is technically an exclusive-rights free agent this offseason, but it's fully expected he'll be retained in 2018. Barber established career bests across the stat sheet in his second season and already displaced Martin as the top backfield option for the final five games. Despite poor blocking in front on him, Barber often proved adept at finding space while Martin failed to do so, demonstrating the power and efficiency befitting of a lead back by averaging between 4.1 and…read more

Barber rushed 17 times for 71 yards and a touchdown while also securing two of four targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 31-24 win over the Saints. He also fumbled once but recovered.

Analysis: As expected, Barber was the clear-cut lead back once again for the season finale, as Doug Martin logged just three rushes. The second-year back eclipsed 4.0 yards per carry for the fourth time in the last five contests, and his first-quarter rushing touchdown was his first since Week 12. The Auburn product demonstrated that he was aptly capable of handling lead-back duties over the final five games of the season, and as an exclusive-rights free agent heading into 2018, he's likely to enter OTAs…read more

Barber rushed 13 times for 51 yards and brought in both of his targets for four yards in Sunday's 22-19 loss to the Panthers.

Analysis: Barber once again helmed the Buccaneers backfield, despite the fact that Doug Martin was back in uniform after being made a healthy scratch Week 15. The second-year running back ran with his trademark decisiveness, but Tampa was in catch-up mode in the second half, capping his opportunities overall. Given the disparity of performance between Barber and Martin, the former appears headed for another starting assignment in the regular-season finale versus the Saints next Sunday.

Barber rushed 13 times for 53 yards and caught all three of his targets for 15 yards, but he also lost a fumble in Monday night's 24-21 defeat against the Falcons.

Analysis: Barber was handed the start in the wake of Doug Martin being deactivated, but considering he entered Monday following 40 touches the prior two weeks, his significant workload wasn't anything new. Although his 4.1 yards per carry gave him a third straight game with at least that many on average, his second-quarter fumble hurt his performance. Given his recent production, however, Barber should remain in the mix even if Martin returns for Week 16's trip to Carolina.

Starting Monday

Barber will start Monday's game versus the Falcons, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: Earlier Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN relayed Barber would take the place of Doug Martin as the primary running back for the Buccaneers. In a turn of events, though, Martin won't take the field at all Monday due to a violation of team rules. Over the past two games, Barber has tallied 35 carries for 160 yards and five catches for 46 yards, so he's a good bet to produce against an Atlanta defense that has given up 134.2 yards from scrimmage to game to running backs this season. Behind Barber,…read more

The Buccaneers are expected to have Barber in the starting lineup Monday against the Falcons, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Getting the nod Week 13 when Doug Martin sat out due to a concussion, Barber reeled off 102 yards on 23 carries and also tacked on four receptions on as many targets for 41 yards. With Martin back in the lineup last weekend versus the Lions, Barber outgained Martin, 63 to 50, in yards from scrimmage, which may have been precipitated by Martin's second-quarter fumble. On this occasion, expect Barber to handle most of the running back reps, but Martin likely will pick up a handful of touches.

Exact Week 15 role unclear

The Buccaneers do not plan on naming a clear-cut starter between Barber and Doug Martin for Monday night's game against the Falcons, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis: Barber was impressive for a second consecutive game in Week 14 against the Lions, taking the reins of the Buccaneers' backfield in the second half and finishing with 58 yards on 12 carries. That tally came on the heels of a career-best 23-carry, 102-yard effort in Week 13, a contest in which Barber served as the clear-cut lead back when Martin was out with a concussion. With Tampa playing out the string at 4-9, head coach Dirk Koetter appears perfectly willing to ride whomever has the hot hand…read more

Barber rushed 12 times for 58 yards and brought in his only target for five yards in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Lions.

Analysis: Although he officially began the game as Doug Martin's backup, Barber ended up outpacing the latter in rushing touches and was much more successful in finding running room. The second-year back has consistently been able to garner positive gains in the rush game in contrast to Martin, who despite scoring a touchdown averaged fewer than 3.0 yards per rush for the fourth time in the last five games Sunday and lost a fumble. Given Barber's continued success and the Buccaneers' spiraling season, it…read more

Barber is expected to settle back into a reserve role Sunday against the Lions with Doug Martin in line to start the contest, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: While Martin was in the concussion protocol and ultimately held out of the Buccaneers' Week 13 loss to the Packers, Barber took over lead-back duties and delivered an excellent outing, amassing 102 yards on the ground and snagging four passes for 41 yards. That performance shouldn't result in him falling out of head coach Dirk Koetter's game plan entirely in Week 14, though Barber's path to touches is certainly less clear with Martin back in the fold. If Martin, who has been under four yards…read more

Barber rushed 23 times for 102 yards and brought in all four of his targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 26-20 overtime loss to the Packers.

Analysis: Announced as the lead back shortly before kickoff, Barber made the most of Doug Martin's absence with a concussion. The second-year back posted the first 100-yard rushing effort of his career and also led the Bucs in receptions and receiving yards. Barber's performance validated head coach Dirk Koetter's decision, and he looked considerably more adept than Martin has at finding running lanes to hit. Given his performance Sunday, it's fair to at least contemplate a much more equal division of…read more

Garners starting nod Sunday

The Buccaneers are planning to start Barber at running back Sunday against the Packers, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM Radio reports.

Analysis: It's expected that head coach Dirk Koetter will sprinkle fellow running backs Jacquizz Rodgers and Charles Sims liberally into the game plan while normal lead back Doug Martin (concussion) is sidelined, but Barber looks like the leading candidate to pace the group in touches. Though he only gained seven yards on five carries in last week's loss to the Falcons, he punched in two of his totes for touchdowns, impressing the Bucs' brass with his power between the tackles. His upside is fairly…read more

With Doug Martin (concussion) ruled out for Sunday's game against the Packers, Barber could step into a more sizable role, FloridaFootballInsiders.com reports.

Analysis: Though Barber secured his first two touchdowns of the season in the Week 12 loss to the Falcons, he managed a meager seven yards on five carries, a level of efficiency that wouldn't seem to merit a longer look. Barber's season-long mark of 2.9 yards per carry isn't much more impressive, but his youth -- he's 23 years old -- may work in his favor, as he would seemingly have more untapped upside for the 4-7 Buccaneers to try and mine than the 27-year-old Jacquizz Rodgers. Charles Sims will be…read more

Barber rushed five times for seven yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 34-20 loss to the Falcons.

Analysis: The reserve running back made the most of his limited opportunities, cashing in with a pair of short touchdowns in the third and fourth quarters. Barber saw extra snaps in the red zone with Doug Martin (concussion) exiting the game in the first half, and he could be in line for an expanded workload again in Week 13 versus the Packers if Martin is unable to recover in time for the contest.

Barber secured both of his targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 30-20 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: Barber logged only three snaps on offense but made the most of them, logging a pair of catches for the second time in the last three contests. The second-year Auburn product saw a season-high 11 carries in Week 9 against the Saints, but given that he's notched just a pair of totes in the subsequent two games, it appears his role in the ground game is nowhere near reliable at the moment. As a result, Barber's fantasy value is currently non-existent.

Barber lost two yards on two rushes in Sunday's 15-10 win over the Jets.

Analysis: One week after leading the Buccaneers' backfield in rushes with 11, Barber saw only seven snaps, while Doug Martin (36 snaps) and Charles Sims (22 snaps) handled the majority of the work. To an extent, head coach Dirk Koetter appears to be open to tweaking the makeup of the rushing attack in an attempt to jump-start a largely moribund offense, but he still understandably seems to have a distinct preference for Doug Martin as his lead back in non-blowout scenarios. Barber's role thus remains…read more

Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter suggested that Barber, who logged a season-high 11 carries for 34 yards in Sunday's 30-10 loss to the Saints, could see an expanded role Week 10 against the Jets, Roy Cummings of FloridaFootballInsiders.com reports. "Yeah, we are going to consider everything,'" Koetter said Monday, when asked if Barber was in store for an increased workload. "Peyton did do a good job of breaking tackles and running after first contact [on Sunday]."

Analysis: Starting running back Doug Martin had an impressive showing in his season debut Week 5 against the Patriots (13 carries, 74 yards and a touchdown), but he's struggled mightily ever since, averaging just 3.0 yards per tote in 60 carries the past four contests. Koetter limited Martin to just 18 snaps in Week 9 with the back gaining just seven yards on eight handoffs, affording Barber a longer look. While his efficiency wasn't outstanding, Barber still bested Martin's production while playing…read more