One major decision the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to make in the offseason is centered around Chris Godwin. Since being drafted in the third round by Tampa Bay in 2017, Godwin has been one of their most consistent playmakers, creating the perfect duo with Mike Evans.

The Super Bowl champion is expected to be one of the top free agent wide receivers in 2025. The Bucs are expected to have just over $24 million in cap space in the coming offseason, so there’s not much room to hand Godwin a massive extension immediately.

Could they use the franchise tag on Godwin for a fourth time? Joel Corry of CBS Sports lists it as a possibility, but outlines the potential financial ramifications that could come with Godwin receiving another tag.

Chris Godwin was on pace for career highs in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches before dislocating his left ankle in a Week 7 contest against the Baltimore Ravens. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers using a franchise tag on Godwin for the third time in his NFL career will be too cost prohibitive. By CBA rule, it will be the greater of 144% of his $27.534 million 2024 salary ($39,648,960) or the largest number at any position, which is quarterback.

So basically, if tagged, Godwin would be making close to $40 million in 2025, greater than the franchise tag for a quarterback. The regular price for a wide receiver tag would be $23,599,000. The cap for 2025 is expected to rise, so the Bucs could potentially make something happen with Godwin if they really wanted to.