Bucky Irving Out for Buccaneers in Key Monday Night Matchup

TAMPA, Florida — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football without starting running back Bucky Irving, who is unable to play due to multiple injuries. Head coach Todd Bowles announced that Irving has been ruled out after missing practice all week.

Irving suffered a foot sprain and a shoulder subluxation during the Buccaneers’ 31-25 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4. Although he finished that game with a notable 72-yard touchdown catch, concerns about his health arose the following week when Bowles confirmed the need for an MRI.

“He’s not in play for this week’s game,” Bowles said on a recent conference call, providing clarity on Irving’s status. The second-year back’s absence raises questions about the Buccaneers’ offensive plans against the Lions’ defense.

With Irving out, Rachaad White is set to lead the Buccaneers’ backfield. White has performed well in Irving’s absence, accumulating 214 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the last two games. “We have confidence in Rachaad to step up,” Bowles noted.

In addition to Irving, wide receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Egbuka were absent from practice, raising concerns about Tampa Bay’s passing game. Evans returned to practice, but his participation in the game remains uncertain.

As the Buccaneers prepare for the game, backup running back Sean Tucker and rookie Josh Williams are expected to step into more significant roles behind White. Tucker managed six carries for a touchdown last week, while White is considered a must-start for fantasy owners due to his recent performance.

The Buccaneers, currently sitting at 5-1, will be tested against a strong Lions team, and their early-season success will hinge on the performance of White and the rest of the offense in the absence of key playmakers.