Fans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are used to seeing the number 14 and the name "Godwin" on the back of their star wide receiver's jersey as he trots into the end zone. That sight will look slightly different in 2025 and beyond.
The team announced that Godwin will be adding "Jr." to his name on his jersey.
Why @CGtwelve_ changed the name on the back of his jersey 🙏 pic.twitter.com/AJSQmxYCRz
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) June 12, 2025
"As I kid I enjoyed an amazing relationship with my dad, Rod Christopher Godwin, Sr. From youth football through high school, I always knew that he was there because I would hear him yelling in support of his son. He instilled in me early that I could achieve anything I wanted if I worked hard enough and treated people with respect. I always appreciated and valued the immeasurable impact he had on my life, and I made sure to let him know that every day, not just on Father's Day. I lost my Pops in January of 2024, and Father's Day last year was a time of reflection and introspection.
"This year, Father's Day represents a full circle moment in my life journey as I get to celebrate being a first-time dad with my son, Ace. Fatherhood has already been an unbelievable experience and has changed me in so many ways. I can only hope that Ace feels the same way about me as I do about my dad.
"As a professional athlete, you are always recognized for the name on the front of your jersey, but I also play for the name that's printed on the back. That's why I have chosen to add 'Jr.' to my name in honor of the man who gave so unselfishly of himself to others and helped mold me into who I am today.
"Love you, Pops!"
Godwin suffered a brutal ankle injury in the Bucs' loss to Baltimore last year that prematurely ended his season. However, Godwin appears to have a shot at returning for Week 1, something that will be more apparent one way or another once the preseason is in full swing.
Once he's back on the field, Godwin's tribute to his father will be on full display. And the Bucs' offense will hit another gear as they aim to win their fifth straight NFC South crown this fall.
