Chris Godwin injury: NFL reviewing Roquan Smith for hip-drop tackle, facing potential fine

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith could be punished for his tackle on Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin on Monday Night Football. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the play is under review to see if Smith used a hip-drop tackle to take down Godwin, who suffered a dislocated ankle injury on the play. If the NFL determines that it’s a hip-drop tackle, Smith could be fined for the move.

Godwin could miss the rest of the 2024 season, but nothing will be made official until he has surgery on his ankle. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles is hoping for the best but believes the injury will keep Godwin out of action for a while.

#Bucs WR Chris Godwin’s injury is the latest example of why the NFL banned the hip-drop tackle. The play will be reviewed and #Ravens LB Roquan Smith faces a possible fine. pic.twitter.com/24RFxdku0d

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 22, 2024

“He’s got an ankle, early indication is that it’s dislocated,” Bowles told reporters on Monday night, per NFL.com. “It doesn’t look good.” Bowles added, Our prayers are out for him, Chris is a hell of a player and he’s a hell of a human being even more so than that. There’s not much you can say, you feel bad for him.”

Godwin caught seven passes for 65 yards in the 41-31 loss to the Ravens. After the game, Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield shared his reaction to Godwin’s injury.

Thoughts on Chris Godwin and Roquan Smith

“It just absolutely sucks. It sucks for our team, but Chris deserves better than that. He’s an unbelievable guy, unbelievable teammate, he’s been playing extraordinarily this year. I’ve got a heavy heart right now,” Mayfield said, per Pro Football Talk. “I don’t know what we’re going to do but have some guys step up, but thoughts and prayers with Chris and his family right now.”

Smith had a big night for the Ravens on Monday night. The former Georgia Bulldogs linebacker led the team with 18 tackles and forced one fumble in the win. Through seven games this season, Smith has recorded 74 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception.