Buccaneers Receive Concerning Update on Bucky Irving’s Injury Status

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ backfield could remain without one of its most electric playmakers for at least another week.

As USA Today noted, head coach Todd Bowles gave an unfortunate update on running back Bucky Irving, revealing there’s still no clear timetable for his return from a lingering shoulder injury. 

“Bucs coach Todd Bowles made it pretty clear he did not expect Bucky Irving or Chris Godwin to practice or play Sunday at Buffalo,” reported Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. 

Bowles doubled down on the uncertainty surrounding his young star: 

“It’s a shoulder injury that’s keeping Bucky Irving out. He has to be able to take a hit, and it doesn’t look like they plan to test it this week.”

Irving, who has missed five straight games since Week 4, was off to another promising start before injuries derailed his sophomore season.

Through four games this season, the young running back had 237 rushing yards, 193 receiving yards, and two total touchdowns, showcasing the same explosiveness that made him a breakout rookie in 2024. 

Irving’s Injury Timeline Remains Unclear

Irving originally went down during Tampa Bay’s Week 4 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles with both foot and shoulder injuries, but the shoulder has proven far more problematic.

While initial reports hinted at a short-term absence, the injury has lingered a lot longer than expected.

The Buccaneers have taken a cautious approach, ensuring Irving doesn’t return until he’s fully cleared for contact.

Bowles has continuously signaled that the team doesn’t want to risk re-aggravation.

The delay is a frustrating one for a Tampa Bay offense that thrived on Irving’s dual-threat ability last season.

As a rookie, the former Oregon standout totaled 1,122 rushing yards, eight rushing touchdowns, and 392 receiving yards.

He quickly earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s most dynamic young backs.

His absence has coincided with the Buccaneers’ recent struggles. 

After starting 5-1, Tampa Bay has dropped two of its last three games, including Sunday’s loss to the New England Patriots. 

A big reason for that is that their run game continues to lack consistency.

Rachaad White Will Continue As Starter 

With Irving sidelined, the Buccaneers’ backfield rotation will once again rely heavily on Rachaad White and Sean Tucker.

White has handled most of the workload, continuing to prove valuable as both a runner and receiver. 

He’s been able to replicate Irving’s receiving ability as he has 26 catches for 133 yards on the season. 

However, Rachaad White has only averaged 3.7 yards per carry so far this season, as it has been tough sledding between the tackles. 

Sean Tucker, meanwhile, has seen increased touches in recent weeks. 

Over the last two weeks, Tucker has averaged 4.7 yards per carry on 21 touches. 

Despite the injuries, the Buccaneers remain atop the NFC South with a 6-3 record, but maintaining that divisional lead will require improved offensive balance. 

If Irving’s return timeline stretches deeper into the season, the coaching staff will have to adapt in order to try and get back to their early-season offensive momentum. 

Tampa Bay heads to Buffalo for a matchup against the Bills between two six-win teams looking to regain momentum.

This is a pivotal game with major implications for both sides.

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