Bucs Keep Godwin with Hometown Discount

Wide receiver Chris Godwin agreed to a three-year, $66 million contract with his former team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite being an unrestricted free agent with the ability to sign with other teams, Godwin elected to stay at home and re-sign with the Buccaneers.

According to sources, Godwin was offered more money around the league, but he elected to stay at the city by the bay. Word has it he wanted to stay with quarterback Baker Mayfield, who he has a good relationship with. It also does not hurt that the state of Florida has no state income tax.

This is the second year in a row the Buccaneers, the defending NFC South champions, have allowed their top free agent wide receiver test the market. It is also the second year in a row the player ended up signing with Tampa Bay. Mike Evans was an unrestricted free agent last season and ended up signing a two-year, $41 million pact.

Godwin's deal comes with a $44 million guarantee. The contract, with incentives, could reach as high as $72 million over the duration of the contract.

Before Godwin went down with a dislocated ankle during Week 7 of last season, he led the entire NFL in receptions. He was second in the league in yards and third in receiving touchdowns. He was a clear No. 2 to Evans, but shows signs of breaking out of Evans' shadow.

When healthy, he has a legitimate shot of regaining his WR1 status with the Buccaneers who seem to have an expensive, pass-happy offense.