Week 13 Injury Updates: Will Bucky Irving and Baker Mayfield Play?

The Week 13 NFL matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Arizona Cardinals is drawing attention due to injuries affecting key players. Quarterback Baker Mayfield and running back Bucky Irving are both listed as questionable, greatly influencing the game’s dynamics.

Injury Status of Key Buccaneers Players

Baker Mayfield suffered an AC joint sprain in his non-throwing shoulder during a previous game against the Los Angeles Rams. After a slow start to the week, Mayfield improved his practice participation, becoming a full participant by Friday.

On the other hand, Bucky Irving has been sidelined for several weeks due to shoulder and foot injuries. However, he successfully completed full practices this week, indicating a likely return against the Cardinals.

Player Confirmations for Sunday

• Bucky Irving: Expected to play, might have a limited workload.
• Baker Mayfield: Also expected to play despite concerns over his shoulder injury.

ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that both players are set to participate in the game. Irving will be playing for the first time since Week 4, but there are concerns regarding his snap count.

Playing Time and Matchup Considerations

Coaching staff are adopting a conservative strategy with Irving. Head coach Todd Bowles indicated that the Bucs will take a “hot-hand” approach at the running back position. Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard mentioned that Irving’s snaps may be similar to those of wide receiver Chris Godwin, who recently returned from injury and only played 25 snaps.

Advice for Fantasy Football Managers

• Bucky Irving: It may be prudent to sit him this week due to limited expected usage.
• Baker Mayfield: Consider sitting him as well; he ranks lower this season in fantasy points per game compared to last year.

Mayfield’s injury coupled with a tough matchup against the Cardinals, who allow the 10th-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks, adds to the caution. Overall, both players may require careful consideration before entering them into fantasy lineups.