TAMPA, Fla. — The Buccaneers completed day two of training camp on Thursday morning, but it was the first day the general public saw the team practice. On top of cheering when they saw a good play, fans also hollered in excitement whenever a player showed impressive skill in a drill.
This was the case with wide receiver Chris Godwin. Bucs fans applauded when he caught a pass from Baker Mayfield during a routine catching drill. However, the eight-year veteran is not only earning praise from the public. His team has been impressed with his start to training camp.
"He’s quick. I think he’s finally healthy. He looks great. The work he puts in the offseason is unmatched," head coach Todd Bowles said.
"He looks like he's in midseason form. He's making plays, going deep. He looks like the 2019 Chris Godwin," fellow wideout Mike Evans added.
Godwin recorded a career-high 1,333 yards and nine touchdowns in 2019. Since then, he's had three 1,000-yard seasons but hasn't felt fully like himself since tearing his ACL in December of 2021.
"The first year off the injury, I was doing pretty good but I could tell something was a little bit missing. Last year was a little bit better, so this year, I’m looking to step back up again," Godwin said after practice on Thursday.
The one-time Pro Bowler will return to lining up at the slot receiver position this year. He believes that will give him more versatility in the offense. With the return of Evans and quarterback Baker Mayfield, Godwin foresees success in the upcoming season.
"I’m feeling pretty good about this year. Honestly, I’m just eager for the opportunity," he said.
The Bucs continue training camp at 8:30 a.m. Friday morning. The general public will have its next chance to attend a practice on Aug. 2.