Buccaneers Temper Expectations on Star Receiver Godwin's Return from Ankle Injury

According to recent comments from Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht, there is serious doubt surrounding star wide receiver Chris Godwin's availability for the start of the 2025 NFL season. Godwin, a franchise stalwart, is continuing to work his way back from a severe ankle injury he suffered in Week 7 of the 2024 season.

Licht acknowledged that Godwin is "advancing through his protocols" and is "exactly where they anticipated and hoped he would be at this point." However, the GM also noted that "we've still got a ways to go," suggesting Godwin may not be ready for the Buccaneers' Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.

The news of Godwin's potential delayed return is not entirely surprising given the severity of his injury. Earlier this offseason, it was reported that Godwin required a second surgery on his lower leg, further complicating his recovery timeline.

The Buccaneers have learned from past experiences that rushing players back from injury rarely works out well in the long run. The team saw this firsthand with center Ryan Jensen, who attempted to return for the 2022 postseason but ended up missing the entire 2023 season. Godwin himself also struggled after rushing back from a knee injury in 2021.

Fortunately for the Buccaneers, they used their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Emeka Egbuka, a receiver who has already drawn rave reviews from teammates and coaches. Egbuka's emergence could provide the necessary insurance for the team to take a cautious approach with Godwin's recovery, ensuring he is fully healthy before returning to the field.

As the Buccaneers navigate Godwin's recovery, their focus will be on protecting their prized investment's long-term health, even if it means he misses the start of the 2025 season.