After an impressive start to the 2025 NFL season for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning six of their first eight games, Baker Mayfield and company have struggled lately, losing three straight games to formidable opponents.
The Buccaneers were outplayed entirely in Week 12, as they didn’t stand much of a chance against NFL MVP candidate Matthew Stafford and a very talented Los Angeles Rams squad, who could be the best all-around team in the NFL right now.
One of the most significant problems for the Buccaneers this season has been the team’s inability to keep its star players healthy, as several key players have missed time, such as running back Bucky Irving, or have been ruled out for the season, including star wide receiver Mike Evans.
Bucky Irving is Trending Toward Returning in Week 13
GettyBucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
After missing seven consecutive games due to a shoulder and foot injury, Irving appears to be nearing his return to the field. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles was asked about Irving’s status after the team’s loss to the Rams on Sunday night.
“He’s going to practice all this week, and if he’s available on Friday, he’ll play on Sunday,” Bowles said.
Irving has played in only four games this season, racking up 430 yards from scrimmage and two receiving touchdowns. The Oregon product burst onto the scene with the Buccaneers during his rookie season last year, putting up monster numbers for a first-year running back, with 1,514 yards from scrimmage and eight rushing touchdowns.
When healthy, the 23-year-old definitely brings a different dynamic to an already talented offense. Tampa Bay is a better football team with Irving on the field, while also taking some pressure off of Mayfield under center.
Baker Mayfield’s Status for Week 13 is Uncertain
GettyBaker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Mayfield is the light and soul of the Buccaneers, as the team’s success tends to lean heavily on the former Heisman Trophy winner’s performance from week to week.
Unfortunately for Tampa Bay, the team might have to play without him in Week 13’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, as the star quarterback is dealing with a sprained AC joint, which he suffered in the loss to the Rams.
Mayfield was seen on the sideline with his left arm in a sling, which obviously is not a great sign for the team moving forward, as he could certainly miss some time, resulting in veteran journeyman Teddy Bridgewater taking over under center.
With the Buccaneers losing four of their last five games and the division rival Carolina Panthers now having an identical record of 6-5, Tampa Bay is in danger of losing its grip on the division title, especially if Mayfield starts to miss games due to the injury.
Even though it is not an ideal situation for the Buccaneers, the team does have a favorable schedule moving forward, while also being set to play the Panthers twice in the final stretch of the regular season, which could have huge playoff implications.
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