Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Bucky Irving Out for Week 7 Against Lions

TAMPA, Florida — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced Monday that second-year running back Bucky Irving is “not in play” for their Week 7 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Irving has been sidelined for the past two games due to shoulder and foot injuries sustained during a Week 4 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

In Irving’s absence, veteran running back Rachaad White has stepped up as the Buccaneers’ lead back, supported by third-year player Sean Tucker. To bolster their running back depth, the Buccaneers signed Michael Wiley to their practice squad on Tuesday, releasing tight end Caden Prieskorn in the process.

Wiley, 24, brings a solid collegiate background, having rushed for 1,712 yards and 16 touchdowns during his five-year career with the Arizona Wildcats. He also recorded 123 receptions for 1,150 yards and 12 touchdowns.

After going undrafted in 2024, Wiley spent time on the practice squads of the Washington Commanders and Kansas City Chiefs before joining Tampa Bay.

Despite the injuries to key players such as Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the Buccaneers, who currently boast a 5-1 record. This puts Tampa Bay in a tie for the best record in the league alongside the Indianapolis Colts.

Reports suggest Irving could be out for “1-2 more weeks,” indicating that his return may not come until after the team’s Week 9 bye. The Buccaneers will face the New Orleans Saints in Week 8.

Kickoff for Monday night’s game against the Lions is set for 7 p.m. ET.