Chris Godwin Headed Back to the Field

What They're Saying

Rapoport: "Chris Godwin is recovering from a second surgery to fix some hardware in his ankle, a procedure that probably sped up his return. The team is hopeful for a Week 5 debut, though Week 6 is also possible."

ESPN report from Aug. 21: "Coach Todd Bowles indicated Thursday that the Buccaneers want [Godwin and LT Tristan Wirfs] on the 53-man roster when the season starts so they are both eligible to practice with the team. If either player were to start the regular season on the PUP list, he would be required to miss at least four games and would not be allowed to participate in team practices. ... Godwin is expected to start practicing Week 2."

2025 Fantasy Football Impact

As mentioned above, this is confirmation of Godwin's expected return timeline rather than true news. But that's an obvious positive. We'll see whether Godwin can make it back for a Week 5 trip to Seattle, though Week 6 will probably be the earliest we can consider him for fantasy lineups.

Even then, don't be surprised if the Bucs give some buildup time ahead of the Week 9 bye. Mike Evans and rookie Emeka Egbuka provide a nice top two at the position, which could allow Godwin to return in limited fashion at the start.

Tampa Bay's three-year extension with Godwin at the start of free agency, averaging $22 million, shows he'll remain a focal point when back to full health, though.

These next six weeks will be interesting for assessing how to treat Egbuka and Godwin on fantasy rosters. If you're in good shape at WR and have a bench spot to play with, consider trying to stash Godwin sometime ahead of his return. There could also be a second window if he returns in a limited role, potentially disappointing those who have held him to that point.