Chris Godwin, one of the standout receivers in the NFL, may be facing a season-ending injury. The Buccaneers’ wide receiver will have ankle surgery this week, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who noted that Godwin is expected to visit a doctor Tuesday to assess the extent of the injury.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the outlook for Godwin’s 2024 season is grim, as the injury is likely to sideline him for the remainder of the year. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that Godwin dislocated his ankle late in Monday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. The 28-year-old was carted off the field with his left leg in an air cast, after suffering the injury just 43 seconds before the game ended.
The timing of this injury is particularly unfortunate for Godwin, as he is enjoying a career-best season, amassing 576 receiving yards through Week 7—ranking second in the league behind Ja’Marr Chase. He also leads the league with 50 receptions and has accumulated 350 yards after the catch.
The Buccaneers are currently tied for the lead in the NFC South with the Atlanta Falcons at a record of 4-3. Tampa Bay is set to face off against Atlanta for the second time this season on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium in Florida, only three weeks after the Falcons emerged victorious in an overtime game against the Bucs.
Godwin, a third-round draft pick in 2017, is on track to become a free agent at the end of the season, making Monday night’s game potentially his last appearance in a Buccaneers uniform. Throughout his career, Godwin has consistently exceeded 500 receiving yards each season, including this year, and boasts four seasons with over 1,000 yards. He was also instrumental in helping Tampa Bay capture the Super Bowl title in 2020.
The Baltimore Ravens displayed a potent offense during their visit to Tampa, overwhelming the Buccaneers throughout the game.