Will Bucky Irving play for the Buccaneers against the Chargers? NFL injury update

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Los Angeles Chargers in NFL Week 15 looking for a win to boost their chances of clinching a fourth successive NFC South title. And it looks as if running back Bucky Irving will be available for today’s game.

Despite being the 125th overall pick in the fourth round of this year’s Draft, Irving is considered one of the premiere breakout players in the NFL in 2024 and was named Offensive Player of the Week in Week 13. He leads all rookies in scrimmage yards (1,017) and rushing yards (732) this season, and is tied for the rookie lead in rushing touchdowns (6).

Bucky Irving’s current status

Irving has been dealing with back and hip injuries for a few weeks now. He was questionable ahead of the Bucs' game last week, but ended up starting. However, he left the game after just 10 snaps and four rush attempts.

This week, Irving was a non-participant in Wednesday and Thursday’s practices this week, and was a limited participant on Friday. The Bucs listed him as questionable on the injury report, but Irving is expected to play today against the Chargers.

Irving said that he has no structural damage in his back and head coach Todd Bowles has said that whether or not he plays will depend on if his back can loosen up. While he’s expected to play, there is some concern that he will not have to leave early due to back tightness like he did last week.

The game between the Buccaneers and Chargers kicks off at 4:25 p.m. ET from SoFi Stadium.

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