Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Buccaneers Announce Bucky Irving Development on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Dec 4, 2025 5:28 PM ET

Bucky Irving and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 7-5 going into a Week 14 matchup against the 2-10 New Orleans Saints. They're looking to pick up a second straight win after defeating the Arizona Cardinals last week.

In the win over Arizona, Irving rushed the ball 17 times for 61 yards and one touchdown. He also hauled in two receptions for 20 yards. It was his first game back since injuring his foot and shoulder in Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Buccaneers are in a tight race for the NFC South, sitting in first place just above the 7-6 Carolina Panthers. They're looking to win the division for the fifth straight season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7).Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Unfortunately, on Wednesday, the running back was listed as a limited participant during Wednesday's practice, once again due to a shoulder injury. It called into question whether he'd taken a step back after playing the Cardinals.

However, on Thursday, the Buccaneers announced an updated injury report, revealing Irving is back to being a full participant.

Week 14 Injury Report - Tampa Bay @Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints (12/4/25): https://t.co/M1S3aTM4Lf #WeAreTheKrewe pic.twitter.com/F1AMC7FJON
— Buccaneers Communications (@BuccaneersComms) December 4, 2025

In five games this season, he's rushed the ball 88 times for 298 yards and one touchdown. He's also been a reliable pass catcher with 21 receptions for 213 yards and two touchdowns.

After his return, quarterback Baker Mayfield expanded on what it means to have Irving back, saying, "Starting with Bucky, just the explosive play ability. Just having him back out there, he gets a lot of attention whether he gets the ball or not."

After being selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Irving has established himself as the Buccaneers' top running back when healthy. Last season, he led the team in carries (207), yards (1,122) and touchdowns (eight).

Irving could be in store for a big performance against the Saints, who have struggled to stop the run this season. Through 12 games, New Orleans ranks 21st in the NFL in rushing yards per game allowed (126.9).

Kickoff is Sunday at 1 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium, airing on CBS.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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