Three hours before kickoff, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were hit with an unexpected, but ultimately reassuring update.
According to Adam Schefter, the Buccaneers added wide receiver Chris Godwin to the injury report on Sunday morning due to an illness.
Despite the late addition, Godwin was not given a game designation and is still expected to play.
The timing alone raised eyebrows, especially with the season hanging in the balance.
But all indications suggest Tampa Bayâs offense will have one of its most important weapons available when it matters most.
Chris Godwinâs Outlook Remains Positive
Godwinâs name appearing on the injury report this close to kickoff was a surprise, particularly because he hadnât been listed at any point during the week.
The Buccaneers had not previously indicated any health concerns, making the late-morning update feel abrupt for fans already on edge.
Still, the key detail is what wasnât attached to the report: a questionable, doubtful, or out designation.
Teams routinely list illnesses out of an abundance of caution, and the expectation that Godwin will play suggests the issue is minor.
Barring any last-second setback, Tampa Bay should have its full receiving core ready to go.
Godwin’s ability to work the middle of the field, convert on third down, and draw defensive attention opens space for others.
He is a key member of this Bucs offense.
Even if heâs not at 100 percent, his availability alone changes how defenses have to respect Tampa Bay.
Buccaneers Face Panthers With Season at Stake
The stakes couldnât be higher for the Buccaneers as they take the field against the Carolina Panthers this afternoon.Â
This is a win-or-go-home scenario, with Tampa Bay needing a win to keep its playoff hopes alive.
Even with the win, they still need the Saints to beat the Falcons on Sunday to make the playoffs.
If the Bucs are going to keep their season alive, theyâll need far more from Mayfield than what they got the last time these teams met.
Tampa Bayâs current four-game losing streak includes a narrow 23-20 loss to Carolina just two weeks ago.
In that first meeting, Mike Evans found the end zone and Bucky Irving rushed for 71 yards, but the game ultimately swung on a late mistake.
The Bucs offense struggled to find rhythm against Carolina, and the game ultimately slipped away late with a INT from Baker.
After losing seven of their last eight games, there is no longer any room for error for Baker and the Bucs.
The season will be on the line at Raymond James Stadium as kickoff is set for 4:30 EST on ESPN.
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