Bucs Speak Out on Chris Godwin Major Decision

While improvement on the defense may be the big picture goal of the offseason, the most valuable asset to maintain will be wide receiver Chris Godwin. 

Godwin comes off a season-ending ankle injury but will be one of the most coveted offensive players in free agency. As it stands now, the Bucs' potent combo of Mike Evans and Godwin is in jeopardy. 

His asking price could be the deciding factor on whether or not the Bucs go after him. But Tampa Bay has maintained their belief that Godwin is a franchise staple. 

Last week, newly appointed offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard affirmed those beliefs, pointing to his impact beyond his ability on the field.  

“I love Chris,” Grizzard said. “And you guys know Chris is as good of a human being and football player as you’re going to be around. He was a huge asset to us last year, being a coach on the field and playing all those different roles.”

Grizzard has familiarity working with Godwin already having served as the team's passing game coordinator last season. While Godwin may have been a positive voice from the sidelines, Grizzard would certainly rather have him suited up and working in tandem with Evans. 

When healthy, Evans and Godwin together are an almost guarantee for 2,000 receiving yards at a minimum. Having those two threats downfield has made life much easier for quarterback Baker Mayfield as well. 

Mayfield has taken a clear liking to Godwin through two seasons and that connection contributed into molding the quarterback into a Pro Bowl caliber player after many early career struggles. 

With how effective Godwin is for Tampa Bay and all that he provides beyond his receiving prowess, the Bucs would need to be swayed in a significant way to not make sure he is on the team heading into the 2025 season.