TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 07: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Running Back Bucky Irving (7) carries the ball during the Regular Season game between the New Orleans Saints and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 07, 2025 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Report: Bucs' Irving likely to return this summer from shoulder surgery

2 hours ago
Icon Sportswire / Getty

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving will likely be ready to return from shoulder surgery during training camp, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Irving underwent the procedure earlier this offseason. He missed seven games last season due to multiple injuries.

The 23-year-old isn't expected to participate in Tampa Bay's mandatory minicamp, which gets underway June 16. He was on the sidelines with the coaches during the team's first OTA practice Tuesday.

"He's coming along fine," head coach Todd Bowles said Tuesday when asked about Irving's recovery. Bowles added that the Buccaneers expect him back "in the summer or fall."

Tampa Bay added to its running back room this offseason, signing veteran rusher Kenneth Gainwell to a two-year, $14-million contract. Gainwell is coming off a career season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in which he recorded 1,023 yards from scrimmage with eight scores. The Buccaneers also brought back Sean Tucker, who had eight touchdowns last campaign.

Irving had a tremendous rookie campaign in 2024, posting 1,514 total yards on 254 touches, but he rushed for just 588 yards on 173 carries last year.

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