Chris Godwin injury update, timeline for return

With Tom Brady remaining in Tampa Bay for (at least) one more season, the Buccaneers are primed for another Super Bowl push, but having star wideout Chris Godwin at his disposal will be key in making a serious playoff run. With that in mind, when will Godwin be ready to return to the field, and what is a realistic expectation as to his involvement once he does?

Chris Godwin injury update

Godwin suffered a torn ACL and sprained MCL in December of last season, ending what was another productive year for one of the league’s top pass catchers. In March, after placing a second-consecutive tag on the then-impending free agent, the Buccaneers signed Godwin to a three-year, $60 million extension, signaling the team’s confidence in him to make a full recovery and ability to continue contributing at a high level.

Most signs have pointed to positive progress in Godwin’s recovery. The team refrained from placing him on the PUP list entering training camp, he’s continued to take steps forward in his route running and participation in drills, and remarks from the team have been encouraging.

This past week, head coach Todd Bowles expanded on Godwin’s progress, saying, “[he] got some good work in… He’s getting better. He’s getting his wind up, he’s getting his legs under him, but he’s getting better. Obviously, no contact or anything, but he’s getting better every week.”

While those words leave us without an exact date for his return, the lack of any news regarding a setback, Godwin’s steady progression in practice, and Tampa Bay’s keeping him on the active roster lead credence to believing Godwin will be ready early in the regular season.

Godwin’s fantasy outlook

If Godwin’s injury circumstances are important to you for fantasy purposes, PFN’s fantasy team released a full outlook on the Buccaneers’ WR. Here is the general consensus on Godwin and his potential this season.

“Godwin can still be effective right out of the gate. As soon as he returns, he’ll be worthy of inserting into fantasy lineups. However, it would be bold to assume Godwin immediately becomes the top-15 wide receiver he’s been since 2019.”

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