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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have struggled with injuries all year long. That’s why the sole fact that they’re still afloat and have played this well is so remarkable.
Now, Baker Mayfield is going to get a prime reinforcement back on the field. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, star running back Bucky Irving has returned to practice:
“Bucs RB Bucky Irving, who hasn’t played since late-September, is back at practice,” Rapoport posted on X.
#Bucs RB Bucky Irving, who hasn't played since late-September, is back at practice. https://t.co/4PnmGL7PnJ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 12, 2025
Of course, it’s also worth noting that Wednesday’s practice was just a walkthrough. That means that Irving still hasn’t had any contact on his shoulder, which is the main concern.
Irving was initially diagnosed with a foot injury. Then, the tight-lipped Buccaneers also revealed that he was dealing with an even more serious shoulder condition.
The Bucs haven’t gotten much on the ground in his absence, and they’ve now lost two games in a three-game stretch. Having him back on the field will be crucial, especially considering that they will hit the road to face the Buffalo Bills and their shaky run defense.
Irving is one of the most explosive and dynamic dual-threat running backs in the game. He can turn screen passes into big gains with his shiftiness, and having him there should open up a lot of things for Josh Grizzard’s offense.
His participation in Wednesday’s practice doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s going to suit up on Sunday. Then again, it was finally a lucky break for Todd Bowles’ team, as they’ve been stung by the injury bug from the start of the season and will continue to be undermanned for a while.
NEXT: 2 Buccaneers WRs Emerging As NFL’s Most Productive Rookie Duo