Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Buccaneers Rookie Egbuka Details Growing Rapport With Injured Teammate at Training Camp

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Jul 28, 2025 3:14 PM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers drafted former Ohio State wide receiver and national championship winner Chris Godwin with the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, adding another weapon to a stable of productive players for quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Egbuka is expected to start at slot receiver next to Godwin and fellow former Super Bowl winner Mike Evans in the Bucs' offense, adding to depth in the wide receiver room for head coach Todd Bowles' team.

On Monday, the Buccaneers rookie detailed his growing rapport with a fan favorite who is currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List ahead of the start of the 2025-26 season.

"How has Chris Godwin potentially helped you as you navigate this transition? I know him and Mike are not known for gatekeeping and sharing a wealth of information," a reporter asked Egbuka Monday.

"I mean, he's been an absolute Godsend to me," Egbuka replied. "Just on the sidelines, just staying in my ears constantly, whether it's route-running, technique, blocking technique or, kinda savviness or learning the playbook," he continued.

"Even if it's just about life I can ask him any question, you know I'm getting to know him more personally as well, so we're becoming really close friends and I don't think I could have been drafted to a better team or situation," he added.

Egbuka played four seasons in Columbus, Ohio with the Buckeyes, racking up 2,868 yards and 24 receiving touchdowns. He now has a chance to learn from two of the best wide receivers in recent NFL history as his Bucs career begins in earnest.

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

More must-reads: