Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving has been on the sidelines since Week 5, with fans eagerly awaiting his return from both ankle and shoulder injuries.
In the aftermath of the Buccaneers' 28-23 loss to the New England Patriots, there was a thought that Irving could return in Week 11, given he looked "normal" pre-game at Raymond James Stadium.
But head coach Todd Bowles, speaking with the media on Monday, was noncommittal on Irving's return, saying he hopes Irving practices this week.
“Hopefully, we'll see if he can take a hit," Bowles said.
Bowles did state that it was Irving's shoulder, not his ankle, that is the main issue now, and clarified later that he doesn’t know if Bucky will practice this week.
So, there doesn't seem to be too much optimism in Bucky returning for the Buffalo Bills clash, and we would imagine Irving, who has now missed over a month, would need a ramp-up period before he plays again.
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Buccaneers won't rush Bucky back
Given Bucky hasn't even practiced since Week 5, there will be a conditioning part of his return that the coaching staff will need to put him through his paces to see where he is at from a fitness standpoint, not just a physical one with his shoulder.
Bowles stated the Buccaneers need to see him take a "hit," but it isn't known when that will be, and you could make the case that it might not even be this week, which means his return could be further away than many initially hoped.
Still, the Buccaneers are in good shape at 6-3, but reinforcements have to be coming soon.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like Irving will be taking his place against Buffalo.
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