Wasn’t just trust.
Joe thinks Chris Godwin’s decision was a whole lot simpler than what others believe it to be.
With Godwin reportedly turning down some $10 million additional cash than what the Bucs are paying him, Garrett Podell of CBS believes Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield was the big winner in free agency because Godwin turned down the money to stick with the Bucs.
The move by Godwin, Podell believes, is because [Godwin trusts Mayfield](https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2025-nfl-free-agency-winners-and-losers-great-offseason-for-vikings-veteran-wrs-cowboys-have-work-to-do/).
> **Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield**
>
> BSPN reported the New England Patriots were willing to pay up to $30 million a year for free agent wide receiver Chris Godwin to be Drake Maye’s new No. 1 target, but he opted to take a three-year, $66 million deal ($22 million average per year salary), leaving a ton of money on the table to catch passes from Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay. Quarterback Baker Mayfield was on the verge of becoming a journeyman and bouncing around the league for years, but now he’s highly regarded enough for his Pro Bowl receivers to leave close to $10 million on the table to continue to play with him.
Well, Joe is sure there is a nugget of truth to what Podell types. But Joe thinks it is much easier to figure out why Godwin stayed with the Bucs than he has trust in Mayfield.
Godwin was on pace to have his best season last year when he got hurt against the Crows. Why wouldn’t he trust Mayfield? Godwin’s played two years now with Mayfield and done well.
But let’s be real here: Godwin has a chance to win here. The Patriots are a garbage team and even though they have a quarterback, it might be at least two seasons before they sniff a playoff berth (no, Joe isn’t as sold as many that Mike Vrabel is all that).
There is a reason why New England was about to dump all that loot in Godwin’s lap. The team, aside from Drake Maye and Christian Gonzalez, is bereft of talent.
Also, look where Godwin would have played: In a high-tax state with awful weather. Where would you rather play, in a state income tax-free state where you can wear shorts year-round or a frigid place that gouges you on your millions made?
Aside from the cash, there was no logical reason for Godwin to choose New England over Tampa Bay.
It’s really no more complicated than that.