Buccaneers Confirm Injury Status of Key Players Ahead of Week 8 Clash with Saints

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Set to Face Saints Without Key Stars

TAMPA, FL – As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare for their crucial Week 8 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, the team has confirmed that they will be without two of their standout players: running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin. Both players will sit out this Sunday’s game, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Godwin continues to recover from a fibula injury, while Irving is dealing with ongoing foot and shoulder issues that have hampered his availability. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles emphasized the team’s cautious approach, particularly with a bye week looming in Week 9.

“If they’re healthy enough to play, we’re gonna play them, but if there’s any doubt, we’re not gonna play them at all,” Bowles stated during a Wednesday press conference. “With the bye week coming, if a guy’s very iffy, we’d probably be more inclined to not play if he’s not ready.”

This decision reflects the Buccaneers’ commitment to ensuring their key players return fully healthy for the second half of the season. Bowles made it clear that both Irving and Godwin fall into the “iffy” category, leading to their absence against the Saints. The coaching staff is prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains, a strategy that could pay dividends as the season progresses.

With both stars sidelined, the Buccaneers will lean on their depth to fill the void. Rachaad White is expected to take on the bulk of the carries in the backfield, while rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka will likely become quarterback Baker Mayfield’s primary target. Tight end Cade Otton and fellow rookie Tez Johnson may also see increased roles in the offense.

As the Buccaneers aim to maintain their position atop the competitive NFC South, Bowles’ conservative approach to player health could be crucial. “It’s better to lose a game or two of production now than risk a longer-term setback later in the year,” he noted.

The Buccaneers enter this pivotal matchup against the Saints with a focus on both immediate success and future sustainability. Fans will be watching closely to see how the team adapts without their stars, hoping for a strong performance as they navigate the challenges ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they continue their 2025 season campaign.