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Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers Suffer Setback Before 49ers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Oct 10, 2025 10:45 AM ET

Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 4-1 to start the 2025 season. Mayfield is a big reason for that success, throwing for 1,283 yards, 10 touchdowns and just one interception. He looks to continue that dominance in Week 6 against the San Francisco 49ers.

However, the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback may be without several key offensive starters. On the Buccaneers' injury report, running back Bucky Irving, as well as wide receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, were listed as non-participants.

However, Tampa Bay still had a Friday practice to get through, giving some hope that any of these offensive weapons may be good to go come game time.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6).Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Unfortunately, on Friday, ESPN senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler revealed via an X post that Godwin will likely be sitting out against the 49ers.

"Bucs WR Chris Godwin (fibula) is not expected to play Sunday vs. 49ers, per source," Fowler wrote.

Bucs WR Chris Godwin (fibula) is not expected to play Sunday vs. 49ers, per source.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 10, 2025

Godwin made his season debut in Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles after a season-ending dislocated ankle in 2024. Through two games, he'd hauled in six receptions for 52 yards on 16 targets.

It's a big blow for the offense, because in 2023, the only season Mayfield and Godwin played 17 games together, the wide receiver hauled in 83 receptions (led the team), 1,024 yards and two touchdowns.

With him now out, and Evans' availability in question, it continues to add pressure on rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. Luckily, he's handled it well, being named the September Offensive Rookie of the Month.

Mayfield and the Buccaneers are set to be tested against a productive 49ers defense, ranking 15th in total yards per game allowed (315.6) and tied for sixth in points per game allowed (19.6).

Kickoff between the Buccaneers and 49ers is Sunday, scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium, airing on CBS.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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