The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering a new era offensively, and wide receiver Jalen McMillan believes Chris Godwin Jr. is helping guide that transition. With Mike Evans departing Tampa Bay after 12 seasons to sign with the San Francisco 49ers, the Buccaneers are moving forward without the most accomplished receiver in franchise history. That departure leaves Godwin as the longest-tenured player in Tampa Bay’s wide receiver room and places him in an even more prominent leadership role entering the 2026 season.
According to McMillan, Godwin has embraced the responsibility.
Tampa Bay will also be adjusting to a revamped offensive structure under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, who takes over a group looking to maximize its talent while maintaining continuity at quarterback and with an evolving receiving corps. Godwin remains central to that plan.
The veteran receiver signed a three-year contract worth $66 million in March that included $44 million guaranteed, solidifying his long-term future with the organization and reinforcing Tampa Bay’s belief that he remains one of the foundational pieces of the offense.
His influence extends beyond production.
When Godwin missed time during the 2025 season because of a fibula injury, he continued mentoring younger players, including McMillan. The second-year receiver credited Godwin with helping him establish better habits after early struggles, including implementing a daily Jugs machine routine and reinforcing expectations associated with playing wide receiver in Tampa Bay’s offense.
The impact showed late in the season. McMillan finished with eight touchdowns, including an NFL-best seven scoring receptions during Weeks 14-18, emerging as one of Tampa Bay’s biggest offensive developments down the stretch.
Godwin’s value to the organization has long stretched beyond statistics, but his production places him among the franchise’s all-time greats.
Over eight seasons, he has totaled 579 receptions for 7,266 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns while becoming one of the league’s most dependable slot receivers because of his toughness, route-running precision, and run-after-catch ability.
His role becomes even more important following Evans’ departure.
Evans leaves Tampa Bay as arguably the greatest offensive player in franchise history after setting team records for receptions (866), receiving yards (13,052), touchdown receptions (108), total touchdowns (109), scrimmage yards (13,062), and 100-yard receiving games (39). The six-time Pro Bowl selection also produced one of the NFL’s most remarkable accomplishments by opening his career with 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, tying Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice for the longest such streak at any point during a career.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Jalen McMillan says Chris Godwin Jr. is leading the Buccaneers WR room
Reporting by Glenn Erby , Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
