NFL Week 7 Injury Spotlight: Chris Godwin Dislocated Ankle

This week saw several injuries; however, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their star wide receiver, Chris Godwin. In the final minutes of their 41-31 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, Chris Godwin suffered a gruesome ankle dislocation. The medical team evaluated his injury and placed him in an air cast and carted him off the field. Later testing and imaging confirmed the dislocated with ligament damage. The veteran receiver was having a standout season leading the NFL in both touchdowns and receptions. Unfortunately, Tampa Bay fans will most likely be without the top wide receiver for the remainder of the season.

With confirmed ligament damage Godwin will undergo arthroscopic surgery to repair the damage. Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive, involving several small incisions where a camera and surgical tools are inserted to complete the procedure. There are two types of procedures to address lateral ligament damage. The Brostrom-Gould procedure involves tightening the ligaments with sutures. The tendon transfer procedure involves replacing the weakened ligament with a tendon, either from the patient or a cadaver, then holding it in place with sutures and hardware such as screws and pins. Following his ankle surgery, he will most likely be placed in a cast or walking boot to protect the surgery. The severity of Godwin’s surgery will determine which procedure is chosen.

Godwin will require physical therapy following his ankle surgery. Physical therapy will initially focus on reducing pain and improving mobility and flexibility. This will initially be done with manual therapy techniques, like stretching and massage. Gentle exercises will be introduced to begin improving joint proprioception and strength. As he progresses his strength training and balance training will increasing become more challenging to prepare his ankle for higher level training. He will then progress to sport specific training including agility drills, plyometric activities, and football specific training. Completing physical therapy will have a immensely beneficial impact on his outcome and will allow him to return to the field in the best shape possible allowing him to regain his top tier wide received status.

This surgery will most likely end his 2024 season; however, will allow him to return for the 2025 season. Godwin’s injury will require dedication and commitment to his rehabilitation. As a top tier receiver, he will be focused on getting back out on the field as soon as possible and in better shape than ever. The veteran receiver can look forward to an outstanding 2025 season.

Don’t forget to give Portsmouth PT a call if you run into any injuries so we can help you get Back to Sports, Back to Work, and Back to Life!