What It Means:

Godwin, who suffered a torn ACL injury in Week 15 of the 2021 NFL season, is scheduled to become a free agent this offseason. Even with his injury, the Bucs would clearly like to retain his services for the long-term. With Tuesday's franchise tag deadline approaching quickly, expect either a long-term extension or a franchise tag for Godwin in the very near future.

Godwin has been one of the most productive receivers in the league since the Bucs drafted him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. After posting 1,333 yards and 9 scores with Jameis Winston in 2019, he quickly became a favorite target of Tom Brady; the pair connected for 163 catches, 1,943 yards, and 12 scores in the past two regular seasons. While the recovery from his torn ACL may keep him sidelined in the early parts of the season, the Bucs seem to be making it clear that he's a vital part of their long-term plans.