Injuries have taken a heavy toll on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from top to bottom, as players like Bucky Irving, Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, and Jalen McMillan among others are also dealing or have dealt with injuries. What’s the latest on Irving’s status, and will he play in Week 8 against the New Orleans Saints?
Bucky Irving Injury Update
Irving has not played since getting hurt against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4, suffering both shoulder and foot injuries. He has not returned to practice yet, and Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles revealed that Irving won’t play in Week 8.
The Buccaneers have a Week 9 bye, so the team is being cautious with the running back and letting him sit out until Week 10.
A fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, few anticipated Irving’s rapid rise. Initially, he was the clear RB2 in his rookie season, but his role steadily expanded, culminating in three starts over Rachaad White. By 2025, Irving had emerged as the Buccaneers’ RB1, bursting out of the gate with 237 rushing yards, 197 receiving yards, and two total touchdowns through the first four games.
However, he took a hard hit near the end of the first half against the Eagles. At first, it was clear Irving wasn’t entirely healthy. Yet, after returning and delivering an excellent second half, he seemed fine.
Unfortunately, in the days that followed, it became clear the injury was far more severe. After undergoing MRIs, Irving was spotted in a protective boot, relying on crutches to walk. Then, a shoulder issue popped up, which was is even more severe than the foot injury.
Irving’s Fantasy Outlook
Irving being ruled out so early in the week is not a great sign. The Bucs are aware of what Irving offers, so it stands to reason that they will be cautious.
In a weird way, this is good for us. Having to replace a borderline first round pick is a pain, but losing him mid-game because he rushed back is even worse.
Tampa Bay goes on bye next week and with their record being what it is, it makes sense that the team has decided to target Week 10 as a return date.
You want him back into his bellcow role not for this meeting with the Saints, but his next few contests, which are part of a very light December schedule (Saints-Falcons-Panthers-Dolphins).
