Bucky Irving is a running back and kickoff returner for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025. He was selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, 125th overall.
Irving played college football at the University of Oregon with the Ducks, after spending the 2021 season with the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the Big Ten.
A versatile athlete, Irving has lined up at running back, wide receiver, quarterback, defensive back, and even kicker.
Coaches first noticed his star potential in his high school sophomore year’s fifth game, Hillcrest Hawks vs. Lemont, when he racked up nearly 400 total yards and scored four touchdowns.
But the name “Bucky” carries a story beyond football. The challenges behind his nickname helped shape his drive, ultimately leading to an all-conference college career and a spot in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Who is Bucky Irving’s father, late Marcellus Irving?
Bucky Irving’s father, Marcellus Irving, played a crucial role in shaping his identity. He was the one who gave Bucky his nickname, a name that stuck with him even after tragedy struck.
When Bucky was just two years old, Marcellus was killed brutally, leaving behind a lasting void for his young son and family.
Despite the loss, Bucky found guiding figures throughout his life. His high school coach, Morgan Weaver, treated him like family, taking him on college visits and sharing life lessons. Later, Tampa Bay Buccaneers consultant Tom Moore also became a grandfather figure.
“Bucky… My Great Grandson,” is written on grease board in Moore’s office.
Irving also carries the memory of other loved ones he lost.
Tattooed on his neck are three crosses—one for Marcellus, one for his grandmother Darlene Irving who passed away during his high school years, and one for his half-brother Jordan Raybon, who was killed when Bucky was a freshman at Minnesota.
These losses have fueled his resilience and continue to shape the player and person he has become.
Who is Bucky Irving’s mother, LaTisha Irving?
LaTisha Irving, Bucky’s mother, has shaped into who Bucky is today! She signed him up for his first team at age five and bought him his first football, planting the seed for a career that would one day reach the NFL.
Bucky has often asked her what his late father was like and how proud he might have been. Instead of dwelling on loss, he uses those questions as fuel.
“The things I had to see growing up made me pray to God every day that I could go in a different direction,” he said. “I feel everything happened for a reason and God gave me some challenging things to go through so I could get where I am now. I know they are watching over me and really proud.”
LaTisha and Bucky’s father, Marcellus, gave him the nickname “Bucky” at birth because of his wide-open eyes—even when he slept.
What started as a playful family nickname became a lasting identity, one that continues to define him long after.
What ethnicity are Bucky’s parents?
The parents of Bucky Irving are African Americans. They belong to a community that has a culture and history in the United States.
Their history demonstrates traditions, values, and strength that have played a role in the family history.
The Irving family takes pride in their family, and Bucky has been spotted most of the time expressing gratitude to his parents in regard to the help and support that they have provided him in his life and in his career.
It is their culture and background that have contributed to the development of Bucky and his values majorly.
Bucky Irving’s relationship with his parents
Bucky Irving is extremely close to his mother, LaTisha. She has accompanied him all along his life and career and has been able to support him and cheer him up.
Bucky has experienced the love and guidance of his parents’ legacy despite having lost his father, Marcellus, at a tender age.
LaTisha consistently attends his games to see how her son’s crushing it on the gridiron.
In 2025, Irving carries the same drive, fueled by loss, sharpened by love. For him, football isn’t about praise or trophies; it’s about breaking an opponent’s will and dragging the Buccaneers to victory.
After a long pause, he leans forward. “I’ve got to do it again. We are not living in the past. Last year is over. What is Bucky going to do in 2025?”
A grin spreads across his face. He already knows the answer.