Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said Bucky Irving’s touches could decrease in the second half of the season to preserve his health.

09 November 2026

As Bucs beat writer Greg Auman points out, Irving is on pace for 315 carries this season, which would have been the second most in the league last year. Irving has not missed a game yet this season, but after injuries limited him to 10 games in 2025, it’s not surprising to learn Bowles may want to dial things back a bit. The efficient play of Kenneth Gainwell in recent weeks has also earned him an expanded look, and it should instill a bit of confidence in OC Zac Robinson when asking him to spell Irving in certain situations. With the Bucs now entering their bye week, we will get our first look at how the team plans to deploy its backfield in Week 11 when they visit the Lions.