Chris Godwin Injury Update: Will the Buccaneers WR Return for Week 8 vs. Saints?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin remains sidelined as the team prepares for Week 8 against the New Orleans Saints. The veteran wideout, who has battled multiple lower-leg injuries over the past two seasons, continues to recover from a fibula issue that has kept him off the field for two consecutive weeks.

Godwin’s status has been a key concern for both the Buccaneers and fantasy football managers heading into the weekend. Although officially listed as questionable, early reports suggest he is unlikely to play in Week 8.

Chris Godwin’s Injury Timeline and Latest Status

Chris Godwin first appeared on the injury report in Week 6 with a fibula issue. Initially, the team described his absence as precautionary, but it soon became more serious when he was ruled out against the San Francisco 49ers. He later missed the Week 7 matchup versus the Detroit Lions, marking his second straight game on the sidelines.

According to local team reporters and national outlets such as the Associated Press, the injury is not connected to his surgically repaired ankle from last season. However, Tampa Bay’s medical staff has opted to take a conservative approach to prevent any long-term complications. Head coach Todd Bowles has not provided a specific timeline but confirmed that Godwin remains “week-to-week.”

The Buccaneers offense has struggled without its veteran receiver, especially with Mike Evans also managing his own injury concerns. In Godwin’s absence, rookie Tez Johnson has taken on a larger role, filling in as the WR2 alongside Russell Gage. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has relied more heavily on short passes to running backs and tight ends as Tampa Bay adjusts its game plan.

Fantasy Football Impact and Outlook

For fantasy football managers, Godwin’s ongoing absence is a major setback. Once a reliable WR2 with strong PPR value, his current injury situation and lack of production have made him a risky hold. In two appearances this season, Godwin has just six receptions for 14 total yards, a steep drop from his usual performance levels.

Even if Godwin returns in the coming weeks, fantasy experts caution against starting him immediately. The Buccaneers’ offensive rhythm has been inconsistent, and the receiver’s snap count may be limited upon return. Tez Johnson could emerge as a valuable waiver-wire pickup, especially in deeper leagues, while Mike Evans remains the primary receiving threat when healthy.

Chris Godwin’s injury update underscores Tampa Bay’s offensive uncertainty heading into Week 8. Until his health stabilizes, both fantasy owners and Buccaneers fans should temper expectations and look to other options in the short term.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Chris Godwin playing in Week 8?

No, he is not expected to play in Week 8 against the Saints, despite being listed as questionable on the official injury report.

Q2: What is Chris Godwin’s injury?

He is dealing with a fibula issue that has kept him sidelined since Week 6. The team says it is unrelated to his past ankle surgery.

Q3: When will Chris Godwin return?

Godwin remains week-to-week. There’s optimism he could return by Week 9 or 10, but no firm timeline has been set by the Buccaneers.

Q4: Should fantasy owners keep Chris Godwin?

Given his limited production and uncertain timeline, it’s best to bench or drop him temporarily, especially in standard leagues.

Q5: Who replaces Chris Godwin in Tampa Bay’s lineup?

Rookie Tez Johnson has been promoted to WR2 duties, seeing increased targets in Godwin’s absence.