Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin hasn't seen the football field since suffering a gruesome leg injury last October against the Baltimore Ravens.
But a recent report from NFL Network's Ian Rapaport indicates the former Penn State standout is getting closer and may return to practice as soon as today.
"Good news for the #Bucs: Star WR Chris Godwin is expected to practice today for the first time and he’ll be limited. Part of his return to play process, but a very good sign." Rapaport posted on X.
Chris Godwin Nearing Return to Play, Returns to Practice
While Bucs fans should certainly be excited about their star wideout's impending return, it will still take some time for Godwin to get up to speed and reacclimate himself.
"Chris Godwin is recovering from a second surgery to fix some hardware in his ankle, a procedure that probably sped up his return. The team is hopeful for a Week 5 debut, though Week 6 is also possible," Rapaport added on a follow-up post.
The former Nittany Lion has done nothing but produce in Tampa Bay since being selected with the 84th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He's racked up 579 catches, 7266 yards, and 39 touchdowns across eight seasons, and figures to add to that total once he returns.
While the Buccaneers certainly miss their longtime pass catcher, they've been proactive at the wide receiver position over the years, drafting young players such as Jalen McMillan and Emeka Egbuka as long-term replacements for Godwin and the legendary Mike Evans.
While the former Penn State star continues to work his way back from injury, Tampa Bay is preparing for a Monday Night Football matchup with the Houston Texans.