Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans are holding their breath as running back Bucky Irving continues to battle injuries that have kept him sidelined heading into Week 7.
Irving, who started the season on fire with over 400 scrimmage yards in his first four games, has been ruled out for Monday night’s matchup against the Detroit Lions. The rookie back has been nursing a foot sprain and shoulder subluxation, two painful setbacks that have slowed his breakout campaign.
The Buccaneers have avoided placing him on injured reserve, which suggests they expect him back soon. However, with Tampa’s bye week coming up in Week 9, it’s looking more realistic that the team could hold him out until Week 10 to ensure a full recovery.
Without Irving, the Bucs will turn to Rachaad White and Sean Tucker to keep the ground game alive against one of the NFC’s most physical defenses. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in Tampa’s offense — both as a runner and a reliable pass-catching option.
Still, optimism remains high inside the locker room that Irving’s return could be just a couple of weeks away. Once healthy, he’ll be vital to Tampa Bay’s playoff push down the stretch.
Pray for Bucky Irving: Bucs Star Facing Scary Setback Ahead of Lions Clash
