Tampa Bay Buccaneers Running Back Bucky Irving’s Absence Is More Than Meets the Eye
The official story on Bucky Irving’s extended vacation from the Buccaneers’ backfield has been a cocktail of shoulder and foot injuries. He’s missed six games, and the Bucs’ offense has looked about as potent as a water pistol without him. But as the weeks drag on, the whispers are getting louder. The latest locker-room chatter, fueled by Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, suggests there’s more to this story than what’s on the injury report.
“I’m not so sure Bucky Irving is going to be back this weekend,” Florio said. “I don’t think he’s going to be back anytime soon. It’s definitely more information than what’s in the injury report.”
Florio’s comment sent the rumor mill into overdrive, but it seems the “inside information” isn’t some scandalous secret. According to reports, the physical injuries have taken a mental toll on the 22-year-old running back. This is the first time in Irving’s career he’s been sidelined, and the isolation from his team has been a heavy weight to carry.
The Weight On Irving’s Shoulders
For a player as dedicated as Irving, being stuck on the sidelines must be rough. The good news is that the Buccaneers are handling this the right way. Instead of rushing him back, they’re giving him the space and support he needs. In today’s NFL, thankfully, acknowledging the mental side of the game is not a weakness; it is a sign of a smart organization. Head Coach Todd Bowles has been cautious, emphasizing that Irving will return when he’s fully ready, both physically and mentally.
When Will Bucky Irving Return?
So, what’s the bottom line for the Bucs and their fans? Irving is back at practice, albeit in a limited capacity. The team is ruling him out for Sunday’s game against the Rams, but the smart money is on a return for the Week 13 home game against the Cardinals.
Tampa Bay has managed to stay afloat at 6-4, but its explosive edge is missing. Rachaad White and Sean Tucker have filled in admirably, but they can’t replicate the sheer game-breaking ability that Irving brings. Last season’s 1,122-yard performance wasn’t a fluke.
As the Bucs push for the playoffs, getting a healthy and clear-headed Irving back will be more critical than ever. The physical wounds are healing, and it seems the mental ones are too. For now, the best play is patience. The Bucs need their star running back, but they need him whole.
