NFL Rumors: Chris Godwin, Bucs 'Working' on New Contract, Push Back Void Date

It appears that Chris Godwin and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are working on a reunion.

According to Greg Auman of Fox Sports, the two sides have pushed back the void date on Godwin's current contract until March 14, allowing them more time to hammer out an extension:

Godwin, 28, was in the midst of a fantastic season when he suffered a dislocated ankle in Week 7, catching 50 passes for 576 yards and five touchdowns. Had he stayed healthy, he would have assuredly recorded his fifth 1,000-yard season and likely surpassed his previous career high of nine touchdown receptions (2019).

Instead, the one-time Pro Bowler and one-time champion enters free agency on the heels of a shortened season. Still, Godwin registered three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before 2024—his market in free agency will be vibrant.

And he isn't just impactful in the passing game:

Granted, it would appear the Buccaneers are trying to prevent that from happening, and for good reason. Keeping an offensive core of Godwin, fellow wideout Mike Evans, quarterback Baker Mayfield and running back Bucky Irving intact—one that helped lead the Bucs to the postseason for the fifth straight year in 2024—should be the priority this offseason.

But an extension would also allow the Buccaneers the chance to lessen Godwin's cap hit for next season, giving them more flexibility to improve other areas of need, namely on the defensive side of the ball.

The Bucs continue to reach the postseason but in recent years haven't felt like a team that could legitimately challenge for a title. By retaining Godwin and improving the defense, however, they could be a real threat in the NFC next season.