Tampa Bay Buccaneers running backs coach Skip Peete collapsed during training and was immediately rushed to hospital for urgent assessment. The incident unfolded on Wednesday as Baker Mayfield’s Buccaneers, who had dropped to 3-1 following their defeat to Super Bowl champions Philadelphia Eagles in a thrilling encounter the previous week, were conducting their practice session.
Peete – who oversees a backfield featuring Bucky Irving and Rachaad White – suddenly collapsed during walk-throughs. The collapse occurred roughly 15 to 20 minutes into the training session. Emergency services rushed to the Buccaneers’ training ground, with the club confirming that team medical staff provided immediate care before transporting Peete to a nearby hospital.
“He was attended to by team medical personnel and was responsive, coherent, and in stable condition before being transported off-site for further medical evaluations. Additional updates will be provided as they become available.” Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles subsequently informed journalists that Peete is “doing fine.”
Initial assessments indicate Peete most likely experienced dehydration. Peete is the sibling of former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete and the offspring of veteran NFL running backs coach Willie Peete.
He has been mentoring running backs in the league since 1998, having worked with organisations including the Las Vegas Raiders, the Dallas Cowboys, the Chicago Bears, and the Los Angeles Rams. Peete is currently in his third season with the Buccaneers.
With the help of rising stars like Irving and White, Tampa Bay boasts a nearly top-10 rushing offence, masterminded by Peete alongside offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard.
In 2024, this unit was among the best in the league, averaging 5.2 yards per carry as Irving racked up 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns on 207 carries.
The Buccaneers are set to face off against the 3-1 Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Sunday October 5.
