Chris Godwin Injury Update: Will the Buccaneers Star Receiver Return in November?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have received a concerning update on wide receiver Chris Godwin’s injury status as they prepare for their crucial Week 11 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Godwin has been sidelined since Week 5 with a fibula injury and now faces an uncertain timeline for return.

Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed earlier this week that there remains “no timetable” for Godwin’s return. Reports from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler indicate that Tampa Bay could be without their veteran receiver until late November or even December. The Bucs are taking a cautious approach, aware of Godwin’s history with lower-body injuries.

Chris Godwin Injury Timeline and Recovery Outlook

Godwin’s 2025 campaign has been riddled with setbacks. After recovering from an ankle fracture suffered late in the 2024 season, he missed the first three games of this year before returning in Week 4. In his short return, he played more than 80% of Tampa Bay’s offensive snaps in consecutive games against the Eagles and Seahawks, catching six passes for 52 yards.

Unfortunately, his comeback was short-lived. Godwin suffered a fibula injury in Week 5, sidelining him indefinitely. According to team insiders, the Buccaneers are prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. “We want him right for the long term,” Bowles emphasized in a media session. “It’s a tough break for him, but we’re not rushing it.”

If his return indeed stretches into December, Godwin will have missed 16 of his last 18 games since dislocating his ankle in Week 7 of the 2024 season. That continued absence underscores both his misfortune and the Bucs’ mounting challenges at wide receiver.

Impact on Tampa Bay’s Offense and Team Outlook

Without Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay’s offense has struggled to find rhythm. Mike Evans is currently on injured reserve with a broken collarbone, rookie Bucky Irving remains out with a foot injury, and wideouts Jalen McMillan and Emeka Egbuka have also battled their own ailments. As a result, Tampa Bay ranks just 19th in offensive efficiency and has averaged only 18.3 points per game in its last three outings.

Rookie Emeka Egbuka has taken on an expanded role, while tight end Cade Otton has become quarterback Baker Mayfield’s top safety valve. Still, the lack of explosive plays has hampered the Bucs’ ability to sustain drives. “We’ve got guys stepping up,” Mayfield recently said, “but you can’t really replace a guy like Chris. His presence just changes how defenses play us.”

Godwin’s return could immediately elevate the Buccaneers’ offense. His route precision, toughness, and ability to create separation over the middle are key to Tampa’s balanced attack. A healthy Godwin would also allow Egbuka and Otton to operate in more favorable matchups, helping the Bucs reestablish their downfield threat.

If the recovery stays on course, Godwin’s potential late November or early December return could provide a timely boost as Tampa Bay fights to stay in the NFC playoff picture.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Chris Godwin’s current injury?

Godwin is recovering from a fibula injury sustained during Tampa Bay’s Week 5 matchup. The injury has kept him sidelined for over a month.

Q2: When could Chris Godwin return?

Reports suggest a possible return in late November or early December, depending on how his recovery progresses.

Q3: How many games has Chris Godwin missed?

If he doesn’t return until December, Godwin will have missed 16 of his last 18 games dating back to 2024.

Q4: How has Tampa Bay’s offense performed without Godwin?

The Buccaneers rank 19th in offensive efficiency and have averaged just 18.3 points per game over the last three weeks.

Q5: Who has stepped up in Godwin’s absence?

Rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka and tight end Cade Otton have taken on larger roles, helping to keep the offense afloat.