NFL
Last season, Chris Godwin burst on the scene with Jameis Winston at the helm. Despite Winston’s turnover issues, he still managed to pass for over 5000 yards and 30 touchdowns. While Mike Evans was a big reason for that, Godwin’s name was hidden in the shadows. But that should all change. In 2019, Goodwin caught 86 passes for 1333 yards and nine touchdowns in just 14 games.
With Tom Brady under center and Evans back for a full year, will Godwin’s numbers take a dip? His numbers may have a lot to do with how much Brady has in the tank. Can he still get the ball downfield like Winston? Godwin averaged 15.5 yards per reception in 2019 while no full-time Pats’ receiver averaged 12 yards.
Evans will get his numbers but Godwin will have all eyes on him. Evans can draw a double team as he should which will put defensive backs on an island against Godwin. If Brady can deliver the ball, Godwin will see an even bigger year than he did in 2019 for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Chris Godwin has speed and size. The last time Brady had a weapon like this was with randy Moss in 2007 and we all know how well that worked for him. While Evans and Rob Gronkowski will receive their fair share of targets from Brady, it will still be the contributions of Godwin that will determine their offensive success.
One area the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will need to figure out is their ground game. Not only will it provide Brady a safe-haven of sorts, it will also open up their passing lanes. In 2019, the Bucs finished the year ranked 24th in rushing yards and 14th in attempts.
Brady has lost some of his zip on his deep ball. This is where Godwin will need to adjust his game just a bit. With Evans and now Gronkowski on the same field, Godwin will need to be a bit creative in his approach. The days of running “Go Routes” with Winston at the helm are gone. Godwin will need to become more of a “perfect route runner” which allows him to use his speed to get past defenders.
Brady still has the touch to make the perfect 10-15 yards pass, then the rest is up to Godwin. While the Evans and Brady duo will be the top connection discussed heading into the season, it’s the Brady and Godwin connection that will be their saving grace in 2020.
