Godwin and Wirfs Return to Practice with the Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin and left tackle Tristan Wirfs have returned to practice for the first time this season, after recovering from their respective surgeries.Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles stated that both players could be ready to return to action on Monday night against the Houston Texans, although he warned that “they have a lot of tests to pass.” Sources indicated that Godwin, who fractured his ankle in Week 7 of last season, might not play until October. In addition, he underwent another minor procedure this spring to “clean up” his ankle. Wirfs underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in July and his return to play could follow a timeline similar to Godwin’s. Quarterback Baker Mayfield expressed his satisfaction at having his teammates back in practice, highlighting their importance to the team.It’s great to see them out there. They participated in a limited way in practice, but they moved and performed the tasks we asked of them. We’ll see how the week progresses.
Todd Bowles, Buccaneers Coach
Mayfield added that his presence brought “a little extra energy to the practice”. The Buccaneers began the season with losses at the wide receiver position, with Godwin and Jalen McMillan out of action. McMillan started the season on the injured reserve list due to a neck injury. Emeka Egbuka, a rookie, stood out in his absence in Week 1, achieving two touchdown passes in the victory over the Atlanta Falcons. In the first game of the season, the Buccaneers reorganized their offensive line to cover the absence of Wirfs, shifting Cody Barton to left tackle, moving Ben Bredeson to center, and including Mike Jordan, promoted from the practice squad, as guard. Despite last season’s injury, the Buccaneers re-signed Godwin as a free agent earlier this year to a three-year, $66 million contract, which includes two fully guaranteed seasons for $44 million. Godwin ranks second in franchise history, behind teammate Mike Evans, with 579 receptions, 7,266 yards and 39 touchdowns.It’s good to see them back, Chris moving, to have them back.
Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers Quarterback
