Rachaad White

Rachaad White was born March 1, 1999, in Kansas City, Missouri, and his road to the NFL was among the most unlikely of any modern starting running back. He was largely overlooked as a high school recruit and initially played junior college football at Mt. San Antonio College in California before eventually landing at Nevada and then Arizona State for his Division I career. His path — small college to junior college to Power Five to the NFL — reflects a persistence unusual among players who reach the league as featured backs.

White attended Center High School in the Kansas City area, where he played multiple sports but was not heavily recruited for football. His development at Mt. San Antonio College and his subsequent graduate transfer route eventually landed him at Arizona State, where his combination of pass-catching ability and decisive downhill running drew NFL attention.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected White in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and he stepped into a featured role by his second season, leading the Buccaneers in rushing in 2023 and adding significant receiving production. He became one of the most versatile dual-threat backs in the NFC and helped lead Tampa Bay to NFC South division titles during his tenure.

White's 2023 season saw him post a career-best campaign with nearly 1,000 rushing yards and more than 60 receptions, making him a top-12 fantasy producer at the position. His combination of between-the-tackles toughness, patience behind blockers, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield has made him one of the more complete young featured backs in the league.

He has since moved on to the Washington Commanders, bringing his versatility to a rebuilding NFC East roster. His career résumé still developing, White has already outperformed his draft status and continues to establish himself as a reliable NFL starter.

Off the field, White has remained closely tied to his Kansas City roots and has supported youth football initiatives in both the KC area and his adopted Tampa and Washington communities. His junior college background and unconventional path have made him a compelling story in coaching and mentorship circles, where he has been cited as an example for overlooked prospects. His endorsement portfolio includes Nike and other partnerships typical of a rising young running back.