Chris Godwin Injury Update: Will the Buccaneers Star WR Return After His Fibula Setback?

Chris Godwin’s return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lineup remains uncertain after the star wide receiver suffered a fibula setback ahead of Week 7. As the team prepares for a crucial Monday Night Football clash against the Detroit Lions, head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that Godwin will not suit up.

This latest update has fans concerned about the Buccaneers’ offensive depth and Godwin’s long-term health. The 29-year-old’s absence adds to Tampa Bay’s injury woes as they push for a playoff spot in the 2025 NFL season.

Chris Godwin Injury Update: Setback Delays Return for Buccaneers WR

Godwin missed more than half of the 2024 season due to a severe ankle dislocation suffered in Week 7 against the Baltimore Ravens. The injury, caused by a tackle from linebacker Roquan Smith, required surgery and months of rehabilitation. He returned to action in Week 4 of the 2025 season after nearly 11 months of recovery.

Despite returning to full participation, Godwin struggled to find his rhythm, recording just six catches for 52 yards on 14 targets over two games. Then, a new concern emerged. He missed practice last Wednesday with a fibula issue, which Bowles initially described as “precautionary.” However, Godwin missed the following day as well, and he was ultimately ruled out for the Week 6 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, Bowles confirmed that both running back Bucky Irving (foot, shoulder) and Godwin (fibula) are “not in play” for the Buccaneers’ upcoming Week 7 game against Detroit. This means Godwin will miss at least one more game as he continues to recover.

Godwin has been a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s offense since being drafted in the third round in 2017. He was instrumental in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl 55 victory with Tom Brady and was named both a Pro Bowler and All-Pro in 2019. Over his career, he has accumulated 585 receptions for 7,318 yards and 39 touchdowns.

Impact of Godwin’s Absence and Timeline for Return

Godwin’s latest setback is a major blow to the Buccaneers’ offense, which has already been dealing with multiple injuries. Even though Tampa Bay has managed to remain competitive — currently ranked ninth in PFSN’s offensive ratings with a B- grade — his absence limits quarterback Baker Mayfield’s downfield options.

With Godwin sidelined for Week 7, his earliest possible return could be after the team’s Week 9 bye. This extra rest period could be crucial in allowing his fibula to fully heal before the stretch run of the season. The Buccaneers are expected to reassess his status closer to Week 10 as they aim for a postseason push.

Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that when Godwin does return, he will regain his Pro Bowl-level form and bolster Tampa Bay’s offensive firepower for the second half of the season.

For now, the Buccaneers must continue to adapt without their star wideout. Chris Godwin’s injury update suggests patience will be key, and his comeback may hinge on the team’s post-bye plans as they look toward the playoffs.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Chris Godwin injury update?

Chris Godwin will miss Week 7 against the Lions due to a fibula issue, according to head coach Todd Bowles.

Q2: When will Chris Godwin return for the Buccaneers?

Godwin may return after the team’s Week 9 bye, though no official timeline has been announced.

Q3: How did Chris Godwin get injured?

He originally dislocated his ankle in 2024 and recently suffered a fibula setback after returning in Week 4 of 2025.

Q4: How important is Chris Godwin to the Buccaneers?

Godwin is a key offensive weapon with over 7,300 career yards and was vital in Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl 55 victory.

Q5: Will Tampa Bay’s offense struggle without Godwin?

The Buccaneers remain competitive but lack depth at wide receiver. His absence limits Baker Mayfield’s passing options.