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In an unexpected turn of events, Chris Godwin made a bold decision to leave $20 million on the table to stay with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The wide receiver, who has been one of the most consistent players for the Buccaneers, signed a three-year, $66 million deal to continue his career in Tampa Bay, despite offers from other teams, including the New England Patriots.
A Risky but Rewarding Decision for Godwin
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Godwin had several lucrative offers, but it was the emotional connection to his current team that won out. "Chris Godwin, from my understanding, left about $20 million on the table," Rapoport revealed on The Pat McAfee Show. For most athletes, this would be an unthinkable decision, but Godwin's loyalty to the Buccaneers outweighed the financial incentive.
Why Godwin Chose Loyalty Over Money
Despite coming off a season-ending ankle injury, Godwin, at 29 years old, could have easily secured a higher-paying deal elsewhere. However, he opted to stay with the Buccaneers, where he has a strong connection with teammates and coaching staff. This decision also speaks to his trust in the team's future, as the Buccaneers are going through a rebuilding phase but still have a competitive outlook for the seasons.
The Patriots' Failed Pursuit of Godwin
The New England Patriots were one of the teams heavily pursuing Godwin, hoping to add a veteran presence to their wide receiver corps and give their young quarterback, Drake Maye, a reliable target. However, despite their efforts, Godwin ultimately chose the stability of Tampa Bay over the financial incentives of ing a new team. The Patriots were reportedly "pretty heavy" in their pursuit, but Godwin's attachment to the Buccaneers ultimately sealed the deal.
Godwin's Impact and Why the Money Didn't Matter
In the 2024 season, Godwin proved his worth, finishing with 50 catches, 576 receiving yards, and five touchdowns in just seven games after recovering from an injury. While the money could have been a huge factor for many, Godwin's personal ties to his current team were stronger than any financial offer he received.