Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving suffered a foot injury that will likely sideline him for Week 5 and potentially Week 6 against the San Francisco 49ers. While this is not yet official, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the second-year running back is “expected to miss Sunday’s game” versus the 3-1 Seattle Seahawks.
Bucky Irving Injury Update: Buccaneers RB Likely To Miss Week 5
This report shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, as the Bucky Irving injury has always appeared to be a slow-healing process. The Oregon product spent the past week in a walking boot and on crutches, so it would be a minor miracle if he could suit up against the Seattle Seahawks.
In his absence, the Buccaneers will turn to former third-round pick Rachaad White and undrafted free agent Sean Tucker. White, an Arizona State product, has established himself as one of the league’s better pass-catching backs over the past four years. Since entering the league, White has recorded 173 receptions for 1,266 yard and 11 touchdowns through the air. He can also carry the ball when required, as he has 2,192 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns on 568 career carries.
Sean Tucker, meanwhile, has played well in limited opportunities. While he only has one carry for two yards this year, he made a decent name for himself in 2024. Playing in a relief role, the former undrafted free agent recorded 308 yards and two touchdowns on just 50 attempts for an impressive 6.2 yards per carry.
No matter who starts, they will be a downgrade from Bucky Irving. The running back had a breakout rookie season with 1,122 rushing yards and proved he wasn’t a one-year fluke early in the year. Through four games, the running back recorded 237 rushing yards to go along with 19 receptions for 193 yards and two touchdowns.
Main Photo: Kim Klement Neitzel – Imagn Images
