There’s a reason Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving played slightly fewer snaps in Week 4. Irving is reportedly dealing with a lower-body injury and is “gathering medical opinions” on the ailment, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.
Irving, 23, apparently sustained the injury during the team’s 31-25 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.
While Irving may have injured himself at the end of the first half in Week 4, he returned to action and played during the second half. Irving’s injury didn’t come to light until Monday, when Bucs head coach Todd Bowles revealed the running back was among the players who was being sent for an MRI. Bowles did not expand on Irving’s injury, but he’s reportedly dealing with an ankle or foot issues, per Garafolo.
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Irving emerged as a future superstar during his rookie season. After splitting time with Rachaad White and Sean Tucker early last season, Irving eventually became the featured runner in Tampa Bay. He was excellent down the stretch, gaining at least 100 all-purpose yards in four of the team’s final eight games.
Though all three players returned to the team in 2025, Irving retained his leading role to open the season. Through four games, Irving has averaged roughly 70% of the team’s offensive snaps, a figure he surpassed just once as a rookie.
The Buccaneers haven’t offered an update on Irving’s situation since Bowles said the running back would undergo an MRI. The team will be forced into action Wednesday, when it releases its first injury report ahead of Week 5.
Losing Irving would be quite the blow for a Bucs offense already without Mike Evans. The veteran wideout did not play in Week 4 due to a hamstring injury. He was not placed on Injured Reserve, meaning the team believes he might be able to return in just a few weeks.
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If Irving needs to miss time, he would likely be replaced by a combination of White and Tucker. Both players have experienced strong moments in the NFL, and will need to be on top of their game against a tough Seattle Seahawks defense in Week 5 if called upon.
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