Buccaneers to activate WR Chris Godwin (ankle) off PUP list

The Buccaneers are keeping the possibility open for Chris Godwin to return early in the 2025 season. Tampa Bay will activate the veteran receiver from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, placing him on the 53-man roster to start the campaign.

Although Godwin has been removed from the PUP list, he still needs time to regain full football shape, so he is not expected to play at the beginning of the season and could remain sidelined until October. However, the move opens the door for a potential return before Week 5.

All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs, who has been recovering from a knee injury, will start the season on the active roster as well. Both Godwin and Wirfs will return to play only when fully ready, with no specific target week set for their comebacks.

Godwin suffered a dislocated ankle in Week 7 of the 2024 season, an injury that continues to impact his availability in 2025. The Bucs have been optimistic about his return since the spring but have not expected him to be ready for the season opener against the Falcons.

The veteran receiver re-signed with Tampa Bay this offseason on a three-year, $66 million contract, taking less than he could have earned elsewhere. Removing him from the PUP list allows Godwin to begin the process of ramping up for game action.

This development is especially positive for the Buccaneers following news that Jalen McMillan will miss a significant portion of the season due to a neck injury. Until Godwin is ready, the team will rely on first-round rookie Emeka Egbuka opposite Mike Evans as Baker Mayfield's primary targets.