The Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a gut punch on Wednesday when the latest update on running back Bucky Irving’s injury painted a grim picture for his Week 5 availability against the Seattle Seahawks.
Head coach Todd Bowles first hinted at concern earlier in the week, noting that Irving needed further testing after suffering an injury, but he declined to go into specifics. Now, those worries have only grown. According to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, Irving showed up to practice in a walking boot and on crutches, signaling that his status is very much in jeopardy.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter later confirmed that Irving is dealing with a foot sprain, calling him “week-to-week” while stressing the Buccaneers don’t believe the injury is season-ending. Still, the news suggests Irving is unlikely to be ready by Sunday and could be sidelined for multiple games.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Tampa Bay. Irving is fresh off his best performance of the season, racking up 63 rushing yards, 102 receiving yards, and a touchdown in last week’s win over the Philadelphia Eagles. His versatility has become a key part of the offense, and losing him for any stretch will test the Buccaneers’ depth.
If Irving can’t go, Rachaad White is expected to take over as the lead back, with Sean Tucker stepping in behind him to handle additional snaps.
For now, all eyes are on how quickly Irving can recover — but the Week 5 outlook is already looking bleak.
