Bucs RB Bucky Irving out vs Saints, White, Tucker share workload

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving will not play Sunday when the Buccaneers visit the New Orleans Saints in Week 8, coach Todd Bowles announced Wednesday, prolonging a multiweek absence caused by foot and shoulder injuries. Irving was first ruled out earlier this month and has now missed three consecutive games, and the team said it will continue to monitor his recovery through the upcoming bye week.

Irving’s absence removes a primary offensive weapon for Tampa Bay. The second‑year back has been a prominent part of the Buccaneers’ offense in recent seasons and has been used as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield. With Irving sidelined, Tampa Bay plans to turn to Rachaad White and third‑down specialist Sean Tucker to handle the workload against New Orleans at the Caesars Superdome on Oct. 26.

The injury timeline and cautious approach reflect the team’s broader managing of resources. Tampa Bay has a bye the week after the Saints game, and team officials signaled they may elect to hold Irving out longer to ensure a full recovery rather than risk a short‑term return. That approach would aim to preserve the running back for more consequential late‑season...