For the first time in weeks, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are finally getting some good injury news. Chris Godwin hasn't played since he severely dislocated his ankle last October, but he took one giant step toward making his triumphant return this week.
Godwin avoided needing to start the season on the PUP list, which would have knocked him out for the first portion of the year. That gave Bucs fans hope that he could return to the lineup sooner rather than later, which seems to be the case.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Godwin was a full participant in practice this week, something the Bucs confirmed with their latest injury report ahead of Week 4.
Bucs WR Chris Godwin was a full participant in practice while T Tristan Wirfs was limited. New addition to the report with QB Baker Mayfield limited with a right biceps injury. LB Lavonte David (knee) and T Charlie Heck (knee) also were limited. pic.twitter.com/cEe8cqFgbY
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) September 24, 2025
Of course, the flip side of the coin is the fact that Baker Mayfield was limited, but he's managed to push through in the past. The other name that sticks out there is Mike Evans, who didn't practice and is expected to miss at least the next two games with a hamstring injury.
That's the reason Godwin fully returning to practice is such a blessing. It would have already been a great thing, but his return to the lineup couldn't be more perfectly timed. While there's no replacing the loss of Evans, getting Godwin back to run alongside Emeka Egbuka certainly helps offset things a bit.
Godwin was on pace to be not only the Bucs best receiver last season but one of the best in the entire league. He was in a contract year as well, which made the sudden end to his season even more devastating since it seemed like it might have cost him a shot to collect a fat deal in free agency.
That still happened, and it was Tampa Bay that handed him the deal, and it wasn't for a lack of interest. Godwin reportedly left over $20 million on the table to re-sign with the Bucs, which was yet another reminder of how strong connections are inside the building.
Godwin's loyalty is why returning on Sunday in front of a packed crowd at Raymond James Stadium would make for such a special moment. Aside from the vibes, Godwin would step into an offense that has seen not only Egbuka skyrocket to stardom in his absence but also Bucky Irving as well.
It's not the same offense that Godwin left last October; it's even better, and getting him back only sweetens the deal at the exact right time.
More Tampa Bay Buccaneers news and rumors