Bucs' Chris Godwin Reportedly to Be Activated off PUP, Likely Out Until October

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin has cleared another hurdle in his recovery from a dislocated ankle that ended his 2024 season prematurely.

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Bucs will activate Godwin off the physically unable to perform list to allow him to start the ramp-up process for the regular season.

Schefter noted the veteran wideout isn't expected to play in games until October, but the team believes "he is right where he should be at this time and is pleased with his recovery."

Godwin suffered the injury during Tampa's Week 7 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. He had surgery to repair the damage and finished the season on injured reserve.

ESPN's Jenna Laine reported on July 22 that Godwin underwent a second minor surgery on his ankle to have it "cleaned out," but it wasn't considered a surprise, and he is "doing well" in his recovery.

The Bucs placed Godwin on the PUP list at the start of training camp. Being removed from the list means he is allowed to practice with the team, though Schefter noted he is unlikely to start practicing until Week 2.

If the Buccaneers are expecting Godwin to miss the first month of the regular season, it would seem likely they will place him on injured reserve. This would keep him out for the first four games.

Tampa Bay's receiver depth is being tested going into the start of the regular season. Jalen McMillan suffered a "severely" strained neck injury in Saturday's preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is expected to be placed on injured reserve and could be out until after the club's bye in Week 9, per Laine.

Mike Evans and rookie Emeka Egbuka will enter the season as the top two receivers for the Buccaneers. Evans has been as steady as any receiver in the NFL over the course of his career with 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.

Egbuka, the 19th overall pick in the 2025 draft, has two catches for 26 yards in two preseason games. He had 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns in 16 games for Ohio State last season.

Godwin has spent his entire career with the Bucs after being a third-round draft pick in 2017. He has surpassed the 1,000-yard mark four times in eight seasons.

The Buccaneers will open the 2025 season on the road against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 7.