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Bucs' Licht optimistic about Bucky Irving's return ahead of training camp

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 10:50 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Bucs' Licht optimistic about Bucky Irving's return ahead of training camp

Summary

Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht provided an update on running back Bucky Irving, suggesting he could return to play in just a couple of weeks. This timeline is more optimistic than earlier projections, which indicated that Irving would not be fully recovered from shoulder surgery until later in the summer or fall. Irving's potential return ahead of training camp is a positive development for the Buccaneers as he teams up with Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield. Irving previously missed seven games last season and aims to regain his 2024 form, where he rushed for over 1,100 yards.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Licht believes Irving could be ready in a couple of weeks.
•Irving made a recent return to practice.
•Previous estimates placed Irving's recovery into late summer or fall.
•Irving aims to bounce back from a challenging 2025 season.
•A strong backfield duo with Irving and Gainwell is expected.

Latest Updates

10:50 PMYahoo Sports — Bucs' Licht Gives Expectations for When Bucky Irving Will Be Ready to Play

What they're saying

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General manager Jason Licht suggests the explosive running back could return weeks ahead of schedule, potentially solidifying Tampa Bay’s backfield dynamic just in time for training camp.
— Yahoo Sports

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