The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need all the help they can get after an embarrassing seven-point performance against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday Night.
The 34-7 thrashing marks the third-straight loss for Tampa Bay and further encourages a fast return for their star running back.
Bucky Irving has not suited up since late September, playing only four games in 2025. With the team’s recent skid, how urgent is it for Tampa Bay to get the second-year pro back?
What Have the Buccaneers Planned for Bucky Irving?
Tampa Bay will face the struggling Arizona Cardinals in Week 13, where they hope to get back in the win column for the first time since October.
Luckily for Buccaneers faithful, it appears their star ball carrier has his best chance to return since undergoing foot and shoulder injuries.
Pewter Report, a media conglomerate covering the Buccaneers, provided an update from head coach Todd Bowles regarding the Oregon product’s availability.
Arguably the best news since being injured, Bowles reports that Irving will practice the entirety of the week, and the team will evaluate his status on Friday. From there, the club will see if he can take the field on Sunday.
#Bucs HC Todd Bowles says that Bucky Irving is going to practice all week and then they’ll see on Friday if he can go for the next game.
— PewterReport 🏴☠️ (@PewterReport) November 24, 2025
Irving’s impact is undeniable, as Tampa Bay is 3-1 with him in the lineup, and 3-4 without him.
With other injuries across the offensive unit, Baker Mayfield is undoubtedly eager to get his versatile runner-receiver back.
Irving’s Effectiveness in the Buccaneers Offense
The 23-year-old running back may be one of the most two-dimensional backs in the league, proving valuable in both the run and pass games. While it is hard to accurately compare Irving and other RBs due to his extended absence, PFSN’s RB Impact shows just how vital his presence is, even playing just four games.
In terms of the passing game, the 5’10” star ranks 15th in receiving yards by a running back at 193. With 19 catches on the year, Irving also boasts an astonishing 100% catch rate, dropping zero balls through four weeks. Tampa Bay’s bell cow also has two receiving TDs this season, fifth most amongst stat-eligible backs.
Filling the hole of Irving was initially Rachaad White. However, several strong performances from 24-year-old Sean Tucker have established a running back by committee effort.
White finds himself ranked 21st overall on PFSN’s RB Impact metric, ahead of starting running backs like Quinshon Judkins, Alvin Kamara, and Saquon Barkley. With Tucker’s recent emergence, he is no longer eligible for this list.
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At 6-5, and now tied for the division lead, it is paramount Tampa Bay gets back on track, something Irving will no doubt hope to help with his potential return this week.
