The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a tough loss this offseason when Mike Evans opted to leave after 12 years and sign with the San Francisco 49ers.
His departure creates a huge void in terms of on-field production, but it also leaves the team looking for new leadership with Evans being a nine-time team captain.
They don’t have to look very far — as Chris Godwin, who is entering his tenth season, is quickly embracing his new role.
Chris Godwin is the new sheriff in town for Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Even when Evans was with the team, Godwin was a key leader. He has previously served as a one-time team captain during the 2023 season, and he’ll likely re-claim that role for the upcoming season.
Per ESPN’s Jenna Laine, when wide receiver Jalen McMillan was struggling during his 2023 rookie year, Godwin shared with him a whole jugs routine. When it was time for the playoffs, Godwin sent the rookie a text preparing him for the increased postseason expectations.
When asked during his press conference if Godwin is ready for his newfound leadership role this year, McMillan had zero hesitation.
“He’s been ready since day one. He’s been doing the same thing he’s been doing since I got here,” said McMillan. “Jug routines, breathing techniques, he can tell me when I’m not doing the technique to a tee, and he holds everybody to that standard.”
Head coach Todd Bowles shared the same confidence in Godwin as a leader in the wide receiver room.
“Chris has been great. He’s in great shape, he’s healthy. He’s working out. He’s tough. He’s very smart,” said Bowles. “They rely on him for a lot of the mental part of it, and he’s very helpful that way. But he also makes plays and he looks good.”
Godwin has spent most of his career playing second fiddle to Evans, and now they’re counting on him to step up into a bigger role than ever before. He’s set to be the primary slot receiver in Zac Robinson’s offense, and if he can stay healthy, he’s in for a huge year in Tampa Bay.
Add us as a preferred source on Google