Buccaneers Anticipate Chris Godwin’s Return as Injuries Test Receiving Corps

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter Week 12 searching for traction after dropping back-to-back games and falling deeper into the NFC playoff chase. Their schedule offers no relief, with the defending champion Los Angeles Rams arriving in Tampa for a key late-season test. As the Buccaneers try to steady themselves, they may be getting a significant boost on offense.

Wide receiver Chris Godwin, who has missed the past five games with a fibula injury, appears to be trending toward a return. The 28-year-old logged a full practice this week for the first time in nearly six weeks, a promising sign for a Tampa Bay offense that has shuffled personnel repeatedly due to injuries. His availability would mark only his third appearance of the season after he missed the opening three weeks while completing rehab for last year’s ankle injury.

The timing could not be better. Tampa Bay’s receiving depth has thinned considerably, most notably with Mike Evans sidelined by a collarbone injury that is expected to keep him out until the end of the regular season. The offense has leaned on younger targets in recent weeks, prompting major adjustments to the passing scheme.

As the Buccaneers prepare for another crucial NFC matchup, the potential return of one of their most dependable playmakers adds a welcome layer of optimism.

1. Godwin Nearing Long-Awaited Return

Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed this week that Godwin is “trending” toward suiting up against the Rams, a development first reported by FOX Sports’ Greg Auman. Godwin’s full practice workload represents a key milestone in his recovery from the leg injury suffered in Week 5 against the Seattle Seahawks. The veteran receiver’s absence has forced the Buccaneers to restructure their offensive identity. In his limited appearances earlier this year, Godwin had shown signs of reconnecting with quarterback Baker Mayfield, but recurring injuries stalled that chemistry before it could gain momentum. Returning now gives Tampa Bay the chance to reestablish a reliable route-runner who excels in both intermediate and scramble-drill scenarios. Godwin’s versatility—operating in the slot, blocking in the run game, and creating separation on broken plays—has long been central to the Buccaneers’ passing strategy. If cleared for Sunday, Godwin’s presence could help stabilize an offense that has lacked consistency since his departure.

2. Receiving Corps Adjusts Without Evans

Mike Evans’ collarbone injury has left the Buccaneers without their most explosive downfield threat. His anticipated absence through the remainder of the regular season placed significant pressure on Tampa Bay’s depth, forcing the coaching staff to rely on emerging contributors. One of the most notable developments has been the rise of rookie Emeka Egbuka, who has effectively stepped into the WR1 role. Egbuka has responded with poise, producing reliable numbers and showcasing a strong rapport with Mayfield. His ability to adapt quickly has kept Tampa Bay’s passing game afloat despite multiple setbacks. Still, the burden on Egbuka has been considerable. Defenses have increasingly focused on him, limiting space and reducing the variety of coverages the Buccaneers can exploit. Getting Godwin back would help redistribute defensive attention and open up more balanced route combinations. For a team navigating injuries at a critical moment in the season, restoring depth at receiver is not just helpful—it is essential.

3. Bowles Highlights Godwin’s Impact on Mayfield

Bowles spoke at length this week about the multifaceted value Godwin brings to the offense, praising his football intelligence and reliability. The head coach noted that Godwin’s ability to read defensive movement and adjust on the fly makes him a natural fit within Mayfield’s improvisational play style. Godwin’s blocking in the run game has also been missed, particularly as Tampa Bay continues searching for consistency on the ground. His presence aligns the offense more closely with the structure Bowles and coordinator Dave Canales envisioned entering the season. In scramble situations—an area where Mayfield thrives—Godwin has built a reputation for finding soft spots in coverage and positioning himself as a trustworthy bailout target. Bowles emphasized that this connection strengthens the entire offensive framework, offering rhythm and predictability during broken plays. With the Rams’ aggressive pass rush looming, the return of such a stabilizing player could play an outsized role in determining how well Tampa Bay executes its game plan.