"Don't take this game for granted": Bucky Irving finally opens up about struggles after being sidelined for 8 weeks

Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Dallas Cowboys - Source: Getty
Bucky Irving is practicing again - Source: Getty

Bucky Irving has not been seen on the field in nearly two months because of injuries. Now that he is back, he has some thoughts on that murky period.

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back last played in Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles in September, during which he hurt both his shoulder and foot. As a result, he did not play for seven straight games, even after a bye in Week 9.

But with the reigning NFC South champions losing three straight after the bye, they now feel the need for their erstwhile lead rusher. They got a very encouraging update on Wednesday -- Irving was a full participant in practice for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals.

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During his media availability, he said:

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“It’s tough man your first time being hurt … I mean, when I step on the field, I don’t take this game for granted. I love what I do every day. I love my teammates, and when I go out there I play, and I show them that each and every time I’m trying to make plays and make things happen.”
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Buccaneers OC reacts to Bucky Irving's return

Meanwhile, Buccaneers offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard shared some thoughts on Bucky Irving's impending return to the football field.

"Anytime you can get a starter back, especially a player of Bucky's caliber... that should always elevate you, like when (right tackle) Luke (Goedeke). So I know Buck's in a good spot, and we definitely plan for the run game as we move forward."
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He also opened up on how Irving would be reincorporated into the offense alongside Rachaad White and Sean Tucker:

"It's like (what) we do with (wide receiver) Chris (Godwin), where you can't expect a guy who hasn't played in numerous weeks to go out there and get a normal lion's share of the carries. I think Chris played 25, 26 snaps (on Sunday at the Los Angeles Rams)... but just thinking they're going to play 60 off the rip would be a disservice to those guys."
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Kickoff for the Buccaneers-Cardinals game is at 1 p.m. ET on Fox.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Fans! Check out the latest Tampa Bay Schedule and dive into the Tampa Bay Depth Chart for NFL Season 2024-25.

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Edited by Andre Castillo
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