NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Buccaneers Running Back

NFL Fines Bucky Irving $6,988

The play occurred with 4:28 remaining in the third quarter and Tampa Bay trailing Minnesota. Facing third-and-15 from the Buccaneers’ 29-yard line, Baker Mayfield completed a short pass to Irving, who gained 15 yards and appeared to give Tampa Bay the yardage it needed.

It didn’t count.

Irving was called for a chop block, resulting in a 14-yard penalty and wiping out the play.

Things somehow got even worse on the next snap. Facing third-and-29, Mayfield connected with Chris Godwin for what appeared to be an 85-yard touchdown.

That was wiped out, too.

Offensive tackle Luke Goedeke was called for holding, eliminating what would have been the Buccaneers’ biggest offensive play of the game.

Tampa Bay eventually lost 23-16 to fall to 0-3.

The NFL reviewed Irving’s chop block after the game and determined additional discipline was warranted. The running back received a $6,988 fine for the violation.

Buccaneers Have Bigger Concerns Entering Week 4

Irving’s fine comes during a difficult week in Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers are searching for their first victory and will face the Packers without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Mayfield suffered a dislocated right thumb late in Sunday’s loss to Minnesota and has been ruled out for Week 4. That leaves rookie Jalon Daniels in line to make his first NFL start.

Irving figures to become even more important with Tampa Bay starting an inexperienced quarterback.

The Buccaneers will need their running game and short passing attack to take pressure off Daniels, putting Irving in position to potentially handle a significant workload.

First, he’ll have to absorb one final consequence from Week 3.

The penalty hurt Tampa Bay during the game. The NFL’s decision made it hurt Irving’s wallet, too.