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Chris Godwin

Chris Godwin Player Profile

Summary

Chris Godwin was selected in the 3rd round (84th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Penn State He played college football at Penn State, where over his collegiate career he totaled 153 receptions, 2,404 receiving yards, and 18 touchdowns. Penn State - Official Athletics Website In the NFL, Godwin has built a highly productive career: according to Pro-Football-Reference, he has logged over 7,000 receiving yards, made a Pro Bowl, and won Super Bowl LV. Pro Football Reference Known for his excellent hands, savvy route-running, toughness, and consistent production, Godwin is regarded as one of the reliable, high-IQ receivers with strong character and work ethic. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Strengths

  • Polished route-running: Godwin runs a full route tree smoothly, with the ability to stem off the line and create separation. Tankathon

  • Reliable hands and catch consistency: Strong hands in traffic; makes contested catches and adjusts well over the shoulder.

  • High football intelligence: Reads defenses, finds soft spots in zone, and understands leverage and timing.

  • Strong YAC (yards after catch) ability: After the catch, he shows good balance, vision, and toughness to gain extra yardage.

  • Red-zone effectiveness: Uses size and body control to be a reliable target in the red zone.

  • Proven durability and consistency: Multiple seasons of 1,000+ yard production; high reliability as a top-tier target. Pro Football Reference

  • Champion pedigree & pressure experience: Super Bowl winner; has performed in big games. Sportskeeda

Weaknesses

  • Not elite deep speed: While fast, he’s not typically the fastest vertical threat; less likely to win purely on speed. Tankathon

  • Limited breakaway burst: May struggle to create explosive separation or break off long routes against top cornerbacks.

  • Change-of-direction isn’t his strongest trait: Route transitions in tight space can be less fluid compared to ultra-shifty receivers.

  • Injury risk: Has had significant injury concerns (e.g., his ankle), which could impact his explosiveness long term. Reuters

  • Aging curve considerations: As a veteran, his reliance on savvy, positioning, and technique may matter more as physical traits decline.

Fit & Outlook

Chris Godwin fits best in a multi-receiver offense where he can operate as a reliable Z- or slot-type receiver who can run all types of routes, especially in the intermediate and red-zone areas. His combination of route intelligence, hands, and YAC makes him a natural complement to a bigger, more deep-threat receiver rather than the sole alpha. He’s also well-suited for offenses that ask receivers to contribute in chain-moving, third-down scenarios, and in red-zone packages.

Looking ahead, Godwin’s outlook remains very solid. Despite injury history, his high football IQ, proven production, and character give him a high floor as a dependable top-2 receiver. If he stays healthy, he can continue to be a major part of the offense in his prime years, especially in critical-game situations. Over time, he may lean more into savvy route work, positional leverage, and red-zone target share rather than relying solely on speed, but his skill set is versatile enough to maintain a high level of impact in the league.