Buccaneers Announce RB Update After Bucky Irving News

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Buccaneers Announce RB Update After Bucky Irving News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Oct 21, 2026 4:10 PM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense is all sorts of banged up. They have been without quarterback Baker Mayfield for the past three games, relying on Jalon Daniels in his place.

The Buccaneers are running out of time to turn their season around. Entering Week 7, the team is 1-5, and if they want to make it back into the playoffs they need to start winning games.

Tampa Bay’s practice report on Wednesday was telling for a few reasons as some important names popped up.

The Buccaneers were also without their backup running back in Week 6, as Sean Tucker did not play due to a quad injury against the Minnesota Vikings, leaving Tampa Bay to rely almost solely on Bucky Irving. Irving is having an excellent third NFL season. He has rushed for 452 yards on 96 attempts.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Unfortunately, Irving landed on the injury report for Wednesday’s practice. Irving was listed as a DNP due to an illness that is going around the locker room.

He was not the only skill position player to land on the report, with Emeka Egbuka also missing practice due to both a concussion and a foot injury.

Mayfield officially returned to practice, which is good news for his availability in Week 7 as he looks to finally make his return. Tucker also returned in a full capacity, signaling he should be ready to go, which is important if Irving’s illness does not improve.

Bucs have an illness ripping through the locker room. RB Bucky Irving, CB Zyon McCollum did not practice. P Riley Dixon (illness) was a full participant. pic.twitter.com/zONv4TJaax
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) October 21, 2026

Tucker would be the first man up if Irving is not at full strength, and even if he does suit up in Week 7, Tucker should be able to get some carries. The Buccaneers will visit the Carolina Panthers on Sunday and they need to secure a win.

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

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