When will Bucky Irving return to the Buccaneers?

According to head coach Todd Bowles, the team needs to see if Irving can take a hit in practice before he can return, and it's unclear when that will happen. His return may be further away than many initially hoped.

How have the Buccaneers been performing without Bucky Irving?

The Buccaneers are currently 6-3, but Irving's absence has been felt as he has been a key part of their offense. The team will be hoping to get their running back back soon.

What is the main issue with Bucky Irving's injury?

Bowles stated that it is Irving's shoulder, not his ankle, that is the main concern now. The coach is unsure if Irving will be able to practice this week.

Home / Sports / Buccaneers' Bucky Irving Sidelined for Weeks, Fans Await Return

Buccaneers' Bucky Irving Sidelined for Weeks, Fans Await Return

11 Nov

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Summary

Bucky Irving has been out since Week 5 with ankle and shoulder injuries
Head coach Todd Bowles unsure if Irving will practice this week
Irving's shoulder, not ankle, is the main issue now

Buccaneers' Bucky Irving Sidelined for Weeks, Fans Await Return

As of November 11th, 2025, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving has been on the sidelines since Week 5, with fans eagerly awaiting his return. In the aftermath of the Buccaneers' 28-23 loss to the New England Patriots, there was hope that Irving could return in Week 11, as he looked "normal" during pre-game warmups at Raymond James Stadium.

However, head coach Todd Bowles, speaking with the media on Monday, November 6th, 2025, was noncommittal on Irving's return, stating that he hopes Irving can practice this week. Bowles clarified that it is Irving's shoulder, not his ankle, that is the main issue now. The coach also acknowledged that he does not know if Bucky will practice this week.

Given that Irving has now missed over a month of action, the Buccaneers will likely need to put him through a ramp-up period before he can play again. Bowles stated that the team needs to see Irving take a "hit" before he can return, but it is unclear when that will happen. This suggests that his return may be further away than many initially hoped.