The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed two of their key offensive stars, left tackle Tristan Wirfs and wide receiver Chris Godwin, on the active/physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Wirfs, a two-time All-Pro, missed mandatory minicamp in June and recently underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in July, revealing more extensive damage than initially expected.
Early reports suggest he is likely to miss the start of the regular season. Meanwhile, Godwin, a Pro Bowl wideout, is still recovering from a dislocated ankle suffered in Week 7 of the 2024 season, an injury that initially carried only a slim hope of returning for the playoffs.
Godwin’s Recovery Timeline Uncertain as PUP Rules Complicate Buccaneers’ Roster Decisions
Chris Godwin’s recovery has been slower than anticipated. Although the team hoped he would be ready for Week 1 of the 2025 season, he has not practiced since his injury and missed all offseason workouts, including minicamp.
He also underwent a second, minor procedure on his ankle this spring to “clean out” the joint. Sources indicated this follow-up surgery was expected and that Godwin is recovering well, though the lack of visible on-field progress has raised concerns about his Week 1 availability.
Chris Godwin (NFL)With both Wirfs and Godwin on the active/PUP list, they can still attend meetings, receive treatment, and work out at the facility, but are prohibited from participating in practices. If they remain on the PUP list past preseason and into the final roster cutdown, they must miss at least the first four games of the season.
Players cannot be added to the PUP list after participating in practice or preseason games, in which case they’d instead go to injured reserve, further complicating roster decisions for the Bucs’ coaching staff.
Egbuka Shines in Godwin’s Absence as Bucs Navigate Depth and Injuries Challenges
In Godwin’s absence, the Buccaneers have seen promising development from rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, their first-round draft pick. He has impressed teammates and coaches alike during OTAs and minicamp with his intelligence and versatility in grasping offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard’s system.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield praised Egbuka’s maturity and preparedness, noting his ability to play all receiver positions is a critical asset if Godwin is sidelined early in the season.
To bolster depth, the Buccaneers added Charlie Heck as a backup tackle in light of Wirfs’ injury and the departure of Justin Skule. In addition to Wirfs and Godwin, other players placed on the active/PUP list include offensive linemen Silas Dzansi and Sua Opeta, and quarterback Michael Pratt.
Linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. was placed on the active/non-football injury list, while rookie nose tackle Desmond Watson went on the non-football illness list. Tampa Bay opens training camp on July 23 and kicks off the regular season against the Atlanta Falcons on September 7, aiming for its fifth straight division title.
