Since Bucky Irving's foot and shoulder injuries in Week 4, the star running back hasn't practiced. The injuries initially seemed minor, since he was not put on the injured list. Five weeks later, Irving is still out, and Week 10 is here.
No Bucky Irving, Chris Godwin or Haason Reddick at practice today. T Luke Goedeke continues to practice and it’s going to be a call later this week but suspect he will play. Bucs have a 21 day window to activate him.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) November 6, 2025
The second-year back out of Oregon posted an electric game before his injury. Over 100 receiving yards and another 63 on the ground sealed one of his most productive pro performances. In his absence, fourth-year back Rachaad White has taken over.
Before the bye in Week 9, Bucs fans half expected Irving to be ready to roll this week. Last week, Bucs beat writer Rick Stroud speculated Irving likely won't be out much longer, but Tampa Bay typically keeps injury information close to its chest.
Haven’t heard anybody say he would be out much longer. They chose not to put him on IR, which means they did not expect him to miss four games. https://t.co/5EySgiSzmD
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) November 2, 2025
Irving has a chance to practice on Friday in some capacity, but will likely be out on Sunday, regardless. In his absence, White will resume his role as the lead back. A role he thrived in before Irving was drafted last year.
Bucky Irving injury update steals optimism from Bucs fans before Week 10
The Bucs offense has greatly missed Irving, especially in the run game. Last season, Tampa Bay averaged 146 rush yards per game, fifth in the league. This year, the Bucs have dropped to 24th with 98 rush yards a game.
After a two-touchdown start in Week 5, White has been highly inefficient, despite high praise from Head Coach Todd Bowles. On Oct. 6, Bowles said in a press conference that Tampa Bay still sees White as a lead-back, sparking controversy amongst fans.
In his four games as the lead back, White averages 3.2 yards per carry, not exactly lead-back material. The third Bucs back, Sean Tucker, hasn't seen much playing time. In Irving's absence, the undrafted free agent has 22 carries for 74 yards, mostly in garbage time.
The next three weeks will be tough to run the ball, with or without Irving. Entering Week 10, New England has allowed the fewest rushing yards per game, by a lot. Two weeks later, the Bucs are host by the Rams, who are 11th in rush yards per game this season.
With Irving out, offensive flexibility is limited. The 23-year-old thrives in the receiving game, a spot decimated by injuries. Tampa Bay heavily relies on Irving, and fans are confused as to why he's not back. If White struggles again on Sunday, Irving may be back to practicing next week.