Chris Godwin does not entertain uncertainties. This is why he serves as the consistent heartbeat of a Buccaneers offense that has otherwise been chaotic. From Jameis Winston to Tom Brady to Baker Mayfield, he has witnessed it all. “Change is part of this game,” he has previously stated, adding, “but not all change is beneficial.” This statement resonates differently now, particularly after he declined a significant offer from New England this spring. This was a reported $30 million proposal, a contract that would have positioned him as the focal point of their passing game. He had the opportunity to secure a substantial financial gain.
Instead, he chose to remain loyal to Tampa. For Godwin, the true reward extends beyond Sundays—it lies in his legacy. As his father affectionately referred to him, “Half man, half monster, the Manster!” This legacy became prominent when fans observed a change during OTAs. The back of his jersey now displays Godwin Jr., a three-letter addition that embodies the significance of two generations. “As a professional athlete, you are always recognized for the name on the front of your jersey,” Godwin expressed. “However, I also play for the name that is inscribed on the back.”
So, what prompted this change? The decision was not impulsive. It had been developing since January 2024, following the passing of his father, Rod Christopher Godwin Sr. “He taught me from a young age that I could accomplish anything if I dedicated myself and treated others with kindness.” Now, Godwin embodies that lesson, carrying it with him in every game, every repetition, and every play.
However, what rendered the timing even more significant is that this year marks his inaugural Father’s Day as a father himself. “Fatherhood has already proven to be an extraordinary journey… I can only wish that Ace shares the same sentiments about me as I do for my dad.” And what are his feelings towards his father? To find out, one can revisit his Instagram tribute dated February 2, 2024, where everything is expressed.
Godwin began with a nickname: Rifle. That was his father. Following that were the cherished memories. “My earliest recollections involve moments spent with you in the car, listening to either sports talk radio or Frank Sinatra. A diverse range of content, I thought. As I grew up, you were my idol. The affection you invested in your children is what empowered me to believe I could achieve my aspirations.”
He concluded that post with pride in being his son. Now, coming full circle, his nameplate boldly declares: Godwin Jr. A minor adjustment with significant meaning. It serves as a tribute to the man who nurtured him with compassion, determination, and quiet strength. That is who the Bucs’ #14 will represent in 2025. “Love you, Pops,” Godwin concluded.
Chris Godwin Jr.: The start of something new, something special
There is a quietly powerful aspect to Chris Godwin’s narrative. He has never been vocal about it. Moreover, he did not need to overshadow Mike Evans to shine in his own right. In his inaugural year as a starter, Godwin recorded 19 additional receptions and accumulated 176 more yards than the three-time Pro Bowler, Evans. Yet, Evans never wavered. “Not once during that year did Mike bring anything up to me… Even though he had been the franchise receiver,” Godwin remarked. There was no envy. No inflated ego. Just mutual trust.
Therefore, if you are inclined to assign labels such as “WR1” or “1A/1B” to this pair, it is unnecessary. Such labels miss the essence of their relationship. “When Mike and I have moved on, long after we have left this organization, I believe we will reflect on this period and recognize how rare our bond was,” Godwin stated. Additionally, let us not overlook that GM Jason Licht has already acknowledged this. It is possible that Chris may find himself in Evans’ will. If that were to occur, it would not be surprising.
However, for Godwin, it was never solely about statistics or fame. It was fundamentally about people and their comfort. “I want to collaborate with individuals I enjoy being around,” he stated. Whether in the locker room or among the support staff, Tampa feels like home to him. This is a significant reason for his decision to remain. Not every receiver would decline a $30 million contract, but for Godwin, it was an obvious choice.
On the field, we have witnessed him catching passes from Jameis, subsequently winning a Super Bowl with Brady. Currently, he shares a bond with Baker. “He’s such a gritty player… and you don’t really see that too often from quarterbacks,” Godwin remarked. When he is not catching passes, he engages in games like Mafia, Spoons, and Presidents & A**holes with a group of Bucs and former teammates. The connection remains active even after Sunday.
Meanwhile, Tampa is already planning for the future beyond these three players. Enter Emeka Egbuka. He possesses strong hands and executes smooth routes. Mike Evans spoke enthusiastically about him: “He catches like Chris Godwin.” This comparison may be appropriate, as Godwin’s legacy is already influencing the next generation. Just what the Rifle would have desired from his Manster!
