As of November 30, 2025, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving is making his highly anticipated return to the field after missing eight games due to injuries. The 23-year-old second-year pro, a fourth-round pick out of Oregon in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been sidelined since Week 4 with a subluxated left shoulder and a sprained left foot. His comeback comes at a crucial time for the 6-5 Buccaneers, who are clinging to a slim lead in the NFC South and face the 4-7 Arizona Cardinals today at Raymond James Stadium (1:00 p.m. ET kickoff).
Injury Timeline and Recovery
Injury Details: Irving suffered the shoulder subluxation and foot sprain during Tampa Bay's Week 4 win over the Atlanta Falcons on September 29. He underwent imaging and rehab, marking his first significant NFL injury.
Rehab Progress: Irving returned to limited practice last week and logged full sessions all week leading into Week 13. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the team plans to ease him back with a "pitch count" approach, similar to how wide receiver Chris Godwin was reintroduced after his own injury absence.
Mental Impact: In a recent interview, Irving opened up about the emotional toll, noting it was his first major setback and how it tested his resilience. "It was tough mentally, but it made me hungrier," he said.
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Irving was officially listed as questionable on Friday's injury report but confirmed active for today's game. Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard emphasized a "hot hand" rotation in the backfield, hinting at a lighter initial workload to avoid re-injury.
Bucky Irving Returns from Injury:
Pre-Injury Stats (Weeks 1-4, 2025 Season)
Irving burst onto the scene as a rookie last year but elevated his game early this season, showcasing his explosive elusiveness and receiving skills. Before going down, he was one of the league's most efficient backs:
Season Totals (Pre-Injury): 237 rushing yards, 193 receiving yards (perfect 19/19 catch rate), 2 TDs. He ranked as PPR RB10 in fantasy from Week 6 onward last season, building hype as a 2025 breakout candidate.
Backfield Context: During Irving's absence, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker split duties, with Tucker emerging as the lead back in recent weeks. Irving is expected to reclaim the starting role, potentially creating a dynamic three-headed committee.
Today's Game Impact and Fantasy Outlook
Matchup vs. Cardinals: Arizona's run defense ranks 22nd in yards allowed per carry (4.5), offering Irving a soft re-entry spot. With QB Baker Mayfield also active despite his own shoulder issue, Tampa Bay's offense could lean on the ground game to protect him.
Live Updates from the Game (as of ~12:30 p.m. ET): Irving entered on the Bucs' second drive. His first carry resulted in a 1-yard loss, but he quickly rebounded with a 5-yard gain on third down, converting a first down and drawing "Bucky" chants from the Raymond James crowd. He followed with another first-down run, showing sharp cuts and burst. The Bucs are driving deep into Cardinals territory early.
Fantasy Advice: In Week 13 DFS/PPR lineups, Irving slots as RB25 due to workload uncertainty—expect 8-12 touches initially, ramping if he heats up. Prop bets like over 3.5 receptions (+145) look favorable given his perfect catch rate and the short-handed passing game (Mike Evans still out).
Broader Implications for Bucs' Season
Irving's return could be a game-changer for Tampa Bay's playoff push. The Bucs have dropped three straight, scoring under 20 points in each, partly due to backfield inconsistency. Analysts suggest his explosiveness—evident in quick cuts and pass-catching—might "save the season" by burying divisional rival Carolina with wins in their remaining matchups. If Irving stays healthy, he's projected for 1,200+ total yards and 8-10 TDs over a full season, solidifying his role as the Bucs' RB1.
For live game coverage, tune into FOX or follow updates on NFL.com. Next up for Tampa Bay: Week 14 at the Panthers.
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