Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving is facing a longer-than-expected road to recovery, with new reports suggesting his absence could stretch well into the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. The rookie, who has already missed six games due to a combination of shoulder and foot injuries, is now being described as a player whose struggles may extend beyond just physical setbacks.
Injury Update and Team Impact
Irving, a promising rookie who showed flashes of explosive play early in the season, has been sidelined since late October. According to recent updates from the Buccaneers’ official site and NFL insiders, Irving was listed as inactive for multiple games, joining several other key players on the sidelines. Head coach Todd Bowles addressed the media this week, confirming that Irving’s recovery is progressing slowly, but offered no clear timeline for his return.
“Bucky’s working hard, but these injuries are tricky,” Bowles said in a recent press conference. “We’re not going to rush him back. His health is the priority.”
More Than Just Physical?
Recent analysis from Tampa Bay media outlets suggests Irving’s struggles may not be solely physical. Reports indicate that the young running back has faced challenges adjusting to the NFL’s physicality and pace, with some insiders speculating that mental and emotional factors could be playing a role in his prolonged absence.
“Bucky Irving’s struggles may be more than physical,” wrote a local sports reporter, noting that the rookie’s confidence and on-field decision-making have been affected by his injuries and limited playing time.
Fantasy Football Fallout
Fantasy football managers who drafted Irving as a breakout rookie are now left scrambling. ESPN and other fantasy analysts have downgraded Irving’s value for the remainder of the season, warning that his difficult matchups and uncertain return make him a risky pick.
“Fantasy managers can’t trust Kyren Williams, Ashton Jeanty, and any running back on the Buccaneers in Week 12,” said Matthew Berry, highlighting the Bucs’ backfield as a volatile spot due to Irving’s absence.
What’s Next for Irving and the Bucs?
With Irving sidelined, the Buccaneers have turned to other options in the backfield, but the team’s rushing attack has struggled to find consistency. Irving’s absence has also raised questions about the team’s depth and ability to compete in the NFC South.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Irving’s recovery and whether he can return to form. For now, the Bucs and their fans must wait and hope that their young star can overcome both his physical and mental hurdles.
Key Takeaways
- Bucky Irving has missed six games due to shoulder and foot injuries.
- His return timeline remains uncertain, with reports suggesting a longer absence.
- Irving’s struggles may extend beyond physical injuries, affecting his confidence and performance.
- Fantasy football managers are advised to avoid Irving for the remainder of the season.
- The Buccaneers’ rushing attack has struggled in Irving’s absence.
Sources
1. Bucky Irving’s struggles may be more than physical
2. Headlines & News | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Baker Mayfield’s teammate Bucky Irving may take longer than expected to return to the Buccaneers
4. American football: Tampa Bay Buccaneers news - Flashscore.com
5. Todd Bowles: Bucky Irving's & Chris Godwin Jr.'s Progress | Press ...
6. Bengals Pre-Game Sports Talk w/ Mo Egger and Tony Pike -- 10/5/25
7. NBC Sports - news, scores, stats, rumors, videos, and more
8. 2025 NFL draft: Experts on top picks, classes, impact rookies - ESPN
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