Jan 3, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) runs against Carolina Panthers cornerback Chau Smith-Wade (26) in the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Buccaneers' Star Bucky Irving Undergoes Offseason Surgery

Originally posted on Tampa Bay Buccaneers on SI
By Caleb Skinner | Last updated Feb 17, 2026 11:00 AM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers dealt with the injury bug to every unit of the team in 2025, which had a major impact on why they finished under .500 on the season, missing the playoffs.

Star second-year running back Bucky Irving was among those affected by injury last season, after a coming-out party in his rookie year.

Irving was off to a terrific start in his sophomore campaign before sustaining foot and shoulder injuries against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4. While the foot healed seemingly fine, Irving's shoulder injury persisted, and per JoeBucsFan.com, has now led to offseason surgery.

Bucky Irving Reportedly Has Offseason Surgery

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Irving's injuries caused him to miss seven games from Week 5 through 12, but he was never able to fully recover from his shoulder injury, as he was seen playing with a brace the rest of the season.

Irving struggled mentally during his rehab from the injuries, contributing to the prolonged absence, but once back, it was clear that he wasn't quite himself.

Irving has now undergone surgery to repair whatever was lingering with his shoulder injury, but his timeline for recovery is still not clear, although it is not expected to impact his 2026 offseason preparation.

It's a great sign that the surgery won't impact Irving's workload as he heads into year three, especially considering he will be the only running back on the roster once free agency begins.

Rachaad White has already made it known that he will not be returning to Tampa Bay, and with Sean Tucker also set to become a free agent, Irving will need another running mate to lighten his workload to hopefully avoid any further injuries.

The Bucs will do their due diligence in filling out the room behind Irving via free agency and the NFL Draft. However, if Irving can make a full recovery from his surgery, then he will be looked upon to be the full-time starter while splitting time with whoever the Bucs bring in to supplement him.

Irving has become one of the most electrifying players in the league, so keeping him healthy is of the utmost importance. He is a valuable asset to the offense and Baker Mayfield, so any time missed will likely impact how the offense runs. If the Buccaneers hope to return to a contending status in the league, the offense must get back to firing on all cylinders, and without a healthy Irving, that task becomes much more difficult.