
Bucs eye Godwin’s successor in CBS Sports’ mock draft.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, fresh off a 2024 NFC South title and a Wild Card loss, are setting their sights on the 2025 season. With the NFL Draft less than 100 days away, CBS Sports has predicted the Bucs will take Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka with the 19th overall pick.
“Given Mike Evans’ age and Chris Godwin coming off another major injury, the Buccaneers turn to the wide receiver position once again with the dynamic and speedy Emeka Egbuka,” CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso wrote in his latest mock draft.
If Godwin leaves Tampa Bay in the offseason, Egbuka would be an ideal replacement. Godwin, who suffered a dislocated ankle against the Baltimore Ravens and missed the rest of the season, is now a free agent and could depart. If so, Egbuka’s skillset would fit well in offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s system. Whether this move improves the Bucs in 2025 depends on several unresolved factors.
Chris Godwin is one of several key free agents whose departure could significantly impact the Buccaneers moving forward into 2025 and beyond. Before his ankle injury against Baltimore, Godwin was having a career year and had proven to be a perfect fit in offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s system. A versatile player, he’s been a standout in Tampa Bay, excelling both in the slot and on the outside. It’s no surprise the team is eager to keep him, especially if they can retain Coen as their offensive coordinator.
If Chris Godwin decides to leave, particularly if Coen takes a head coaching job, Emeka Egbuka would be a strong replacement. Both receivers share a similar skill set, and Egbuka would bring four years of collegiate experience to aid his transition to the NFL.
Even if Godwin stays, selecting Egbuka wouldn’t be a bad move if other areas of the roster need more talent. GM Jason Licht could look to bolster an offense that struggled at times in 2024. It would be a smart choice, especially if it helps keep both Coen and Godwin in Tampa Bay.