Is Bucky Irving Playing This Week? Week 13 Return Update for Buccaneers RB

Bucky Irving is active for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Week 13 game against the Arizona Cardinals on November 30, 2025. The Buccaneers confirmed the move after he missed every game since Week 4 with ankle and shoulder injuries. The main keyword appears early to support SEO.

Irving’s status matters because Tampa Bay has struggled on offense without him. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Irving will play but will be limited in snaps. That means the Buccaneers will still use Rachaad White and Sean Tucker in rotation.

Bucky Irving’s Week 13 Status Explained

The Buccaneers need offensive help, and getting Irving back is a major boost. He opened the season with strong production, posting three games with more than 99 scrimmage yards in four appearances. His quick acceleration, pass-game value, and red-zone work make him one of the team’s most reliable weapons.

Adam Schefter said Irving is active but the coaching staff will keep his workload controlled. Tampa Bay wants to avoid a setback after more than seven weeks off the field. Irving’s injuries have been monitored closely, and he only started ramping up practice this past week.

Rachaad White has struggled this season. He has not surpassed 51 rushing yards in his last five games and averages around four yards per carry. Sean Tucker has been the more efficient runner, averaging 4.4 yards per carry with five touchdowns. Without Irving, Tampa Bay lost explosiveness in early downs and consistency in third-down situations.

The Buccaneers also need help at wide receiver, where multiple players have been sidelined. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is playing through a shoulder issue, which has added more pressure to the run game. A limited but available Irving gives the offense balance and stability for a crucial Week 13 matchup.

Tampa Bay enters the game fighting to remain in playoff position. A controlled return for Irving could still help the Buccaneers move the chains, protect Mayfield, and regain offensive rhythm. Schefter’s report supports expectations that the Buccaneers will manage his touches but still rely on him in key moments.

How Irving’s Return Shapes Week 13 for Tampa Bay

Irving gives the Buccaneers a needed spark. Even in limited snaps, he forces defenses to respect the run and short-passing game. That helps Tampa Bay open the field for receivers and reduces pressure on Mayfield, who has been hit often in recent weeks.

The Buccaneers have dropped several close games due to slow starts. Irving’s return could improve early-down efficiency and help the team maintain longer drives. His presence also allows the coaching staff to rotate White and Tucker more effectively.

Irving’s availability, even with restrictions, is a major win for the Buccaneers. He is playing this week, and his return could help Tampa Bay stabilize an offense that has struggled without him.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Bucky Irving playing this week?

Yes. Irving is active for Week 13 and will play against the Cardinals. The Buccaneers will limit his snaps as he returns from ankle and shoulder injuries.

Q2: How many snaps will Bucky Irving get today?

The Buccaneers expect a limited workload. Rachaad White and Sean Tucker will continue to rotate with him.

Q3: Why was Bucky Irving out since Week 4?

He suffered ankle and shoulder injuries that required extended recovery time. He only began increasing practice activity recently.

Q4: How does Irving’s return affect the Buccaneers offense?

He improves speed and production in both the run and pass game. His presence helps stabilize early downs and reduces pressure on Baker Mayfield.

Q5: Who will get the most carries for Tampa Bay today?

The Buccaneers expect a split rotation. White and Tucker should still see most of the work while Irving returns gradually.