Predictions for LeSean McCoy in 2020

Since entering the NFL in 2009, only Darren Sproles has caught more passes out of the backfield than LeSean McCoy has (503 receptions), and he ranks third among backs in receiving yards over that same span. Even in a more simplified role, that part of his game hasn’t quite eluded him. That will benefit him as he transitions in Tampa Bay.

McCoy’s as reliable as they come at receiver, sporting an elite 79.1 receptions per target rate. In Kansas City, he was good for 2.2 catches per game. Expect that to be magnified just slightly in Bruce Arians’ system.

Should he see health over the whole 16-game season, it’s reasonable to predict he could snag 35-to-40 catches for 350 or so yards. And as a rusher, he could have something similar to 60 carries for 250 yards. He would be just the third running back over age 32 to surpass 500 total yards, per The Athletic’s Greg Auman.

In doing so, LeSean McCoy would be performing at a normal rate for running backs of both his age and workload, while remaining a vital piece of the Buccaneers’ offense. Arians said that McCoy’s receiving chops were the first thing that jumped off the page.

Over the past few years, running backs have been among Tom Brady’s favorite targets. And until Jones proves he can dominate as a receiving back, LeSean McCoy could see considerable looks in that area.

As for what it means from a team aspect remains to be seen. McCoy’s been a part of some of the NFL’s most memorable teams in his time in the league. He even won a Super Bowl last season. But he’s never played in more than one Playoff game in a single season. And since his decline in 2018, DNPs in December have begun to add up.

Under Tom Brady, the sky has historically been the limit. Using McCoy sparingly could allow him to have juice for bigger games down the line. The Buccaneers were a personal pick to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl in 2020. And if they get there, expect McCoy to play a key role from start-to-finish.