The Tampa Bay Buccaneers once again didn't have running back Bucky Irving on the field in Week 11 against the Buffalo Bills.
Irving has been battling foot and shoulder injuries — the latter is the more serious issue — and hasn't played in a game since Week 4.
It was initially believed Irving would only miss a few contests especially after he wasn't placed on injured reserve. However, Irving's absence has now extended to six games.
Here's what we know about Irving's chances of returning in Week 12.
Will Bucky Irving return in Week 12?
There appears to be a chance Irving will play on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.
That's based on the fact that Irving returned to practice last week before ultimately being ruled out. Irving turned in three limited sessions, which marked his first practices since his injury.
"I feel very good about it," head coach Todd Bowles said of the statuses of Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin on Friday. "We'll see next week.
"There's a process they've got to go through but they're out running around well and they're moving well. So we'll go through the process and make sure they're 100 percent before they get out there."
Bowles has mentioned how Irving has to prove he can take a hit on his shoulder before being cleared to return. We'd imagine the Bucs will test that this week.
We'll get our next update on Wednesday, when the Bucs drop their first Week 12 injury report.
If Irving sits out another game, the Bucs will have an interesting decision to make at running back.
Rachaad White had been the lead back for Tampa Bay, but Sean Tucker has played better in recent weeks, including in Week 11 when Tucker ripped off 106 yards and two scores on 19 carries and 34 yards and another touchdown on two catches.
Meanwhile, White had 10 carries for 51 yards and two catches for 11 yards.
For now, it would appear Tucker is taking over lead back duties moving forward.
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