Report: Bucs have high interest in bringing back Godwin

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have high interest in re-signing impending free-agent wide receiver Chris Godwin, sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

Godwin played the 2021 season on the franchise tag, but his campaign ended prematurely due to a torn ACL.

A second franchise tag costing $15.9 million is unlikely, added Fowler.

Godwin is a key part of Tampa Bay's offense. Despite missing the final three games of the regular season, he still led the team in catches (98) and receiving yards (1,103). It was his second career 1,000-yard season.

The NFL has become less hesitant in recent years when it comes to inking players coming off major knee injuries to long-term deals. Pass-rusher Bud Dupree signed an $82-million deal with the Tennessee Titans last offseason despite coming off a torn ACL.

Godwin is part of a loaded free-agent receiver class that also includes Davante Adams, Odell Beckham Jr., Allen Robinson, Mike Williams, and Michael Gallup.