The Tampa Bay Buccaneers needed every bit of Bucky Irving's contributions in his highly anticipated return from foot and shoulder injuries. Not just the skills he brings to the table, but they also were desperately yearning for him to ignite the group.
Tampa Bay missed the energy and passion Irving plays with during his seven-game absence. That was visibly clear upon seeing the spark he brought in the team's 20-17 win over the Arizona Cardinals.
It was easy to see how excited Irving was to be back on the field. Those who have followed his situation know the mental toll being sidelined has taken on him. The fact that he was out there healthy and having fun is what every Buccaneers fan hoped to see.
When addressing the media postgame, Irving couldn't help but express gratitude for rejoining his Bucs comrades against Arizona. He gave the Krewe reassurance about his well-being, both physically and emotionally.
Bucky Irving delivers message every Bucs fan needed to hear after highly anticipated return
"It's a blessing, like I always say, man, I don't take this game for granted," Irving told reporters in the locker room (h/t the Tampa Free Press). "Every chance that I get [to get] out there and compete with my guys, I'm going to give it my all, because I love what I do every day ... it's a blessing, and I want to give all glory to God."
After having his struggled aired out publicly, Irving didn't shy away from the topic. He addressed it head-on, instead using the well-chronicled low point as a moment to be appreciative. It speaks to the character and humility of him.
Signs pointed toward the Bucs easing Irving into action and riding the hot hand in the backfield as he shakes off rust. That was far from the case, however, with him instantly reclaiming his workhorse role and rendering Rachaad White and Sean Tucker to change-of-pace duties.
Irving amassed 81 scrimmage yards on 19 touches and the aforementioned pay dirt trip despite being on a snap count. He finished with more than four times as many carries (17) as White and Tucker combined (four). The 2024 fourth-round pick was the focal point of a Bucs offense led by banged-up quarterback Baker Mayfield, who's dealing with a left shoulder issue.