The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are making early waves in the NFL’s negotiating period by securing key talent on both offense and defense. The team has re-signed star wide receiver Chris Godwin to a three-year, $66 million contract, which includes $45 million guaranteed.
Despite receiving offers for more money elsewhere, Godwin chose to remain with the franchise. Additionally, the Bucs have addressed their pass rush by signing Haason Reddick to a one-year deal, further strengthening their roster ahead of the 2025 season.
Chris Godwin’s Return Strengthens the Offense
Godwin was in top form at the start of last season, recording 50 receptions for 576 yards and five touchdowns before suffering a major knee injury in Week 7. Even with the injury, he was one of the most coveted free-agent receivers, especially after the Bengals placed the franchise tag on Tee Higgins.
Godwin’s ability to thrive both in the slot and on the outside makes him a vital component of Tampa Bay’s offense. His return alongside veteran Mike Evans and emerging talent Jalen McMillan ensures that quarterback Baker Mayfield has a formidable receiving corp.
Chris Godwin (NFL)With McMillan stepping up late last season, Godwin is expected to transition back into a slot-heavy role under new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard in 2025.
Last season, he spent more time playing out wide under former OC Liam Coen, but Grizzard’s system is likely to maximize Godwin’s strengths as a precise route-runner with strong yards-after-catch ability. Keeping Godwin was a priority for general manager Jason Licht, but improving the defense was also high on the agenda.
Buccaneers Bet on Haason Reddick’s Comeback
To bolster their pass rush, the Buccaneers signed two-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Haason Reddick to a one-year, $14 million contract, with $12 million guaranteed. Reddick struggled in 2024 after being traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the New York Jets.
He held out in hopes of securing a pay raise but ultimately underperformed, registering just one sack and 14 total tackles in 10 games. Now, Tampa Bay is counting on Reddick to bounce back and prove that last season was an anomaly.
Although adding Reddick is a step in the right direction, it does not rule out the possibility of the Buccaneers drafting another edge rusher in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht remains committed to strengthening the team’s defensive front. With these moves, Tampa Bay is working to build a balanced and competitive roster, ensuring both offensive and defensive success for the upcoming season.
