The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will once again be without a number of key weapons for their Nov. 9 home game against the New England Patriots. The 6-2 Bucs have excelled despite a litany of injuries that have depleted their receiving corps and skill positions. With Curtis Godwin Jr. yet to return from a Week 5 fibula injury and Mike Evans lost for most of the season to a broken collarbone, Tampa Bay could use a jolt on offense.
But those looking to second-year running back Bucky Irving for a boost—either to the Bucs or their fantasy lineups—will have to wait a bit longer. Here’s the latest on Irving.
### When Will Bucky Irving Return?
Irving’s return date is still not known. The running back was quickly ruled out for the team’s Week 8 contest with foot and shoulder injuries. He was also unable to participate in practice before the team’s bye week, further clouding his status moving forward.
Tampa Bay’s Nov. 6 injury report listed Irving as “did not participate” in practices on Nov. 5-6. It stands to reason that the team would like to see Irving log some practice time before making his return. Irving was spotted wearing a walking boot ahead of Week 5 and hasn’t participated in practice since.
### Irving’s Performance and Impact
The second-year running back has been a key contributor for Tampa since arriving. The former Oregon Duck rushed for 1,122 yards in his rookie season, playing in all 17 games. He hasn’t been as effective as a runner in his second season, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry compared to 5.4 in 2024.
However, Irving has made up for it in the passing game, increasing his receiving total from 23.1 yards per game last year to 48.3 this season. If nothing else, the Buccaneers’ offense remains one of the league’s more explosive units, even without operating at full strength.
### Buccaneers RB Depth Chart
Here’s a look at who the Buccaneers will have at running back without Irving on Sunday:
– Bucky Irving (injured)
– Rachaad White
– Sean Tucker
– Josh Williams
White is no stranger to the starting role in Tampa’s offense. He famously held that spot before Irving was drafted in 2024 and remains a dual threat in the offense.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/buccaneers/2025/11/09/when-will-bucky-irving-return-from-injury-for-tampa-bay-buccaneers/87151953007/
