TAMPA, Fla. _ Bucs receiver Chris Godwin made an appearance at practice Friday, the first time he has seen the field since going into concussion protocol on Wednesday.
But Godwin is still a few steps away from being cleared to play in Sunday's home opener against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. He was listed as doubtful on the Bucs' most recent injury report released Friday afternoon.
Godwin, who came up wobbly after taking a hit in the fourth quarter of last week's 34-23 loss to New Orleans, didn't show any symptoms until Wednesday. Despite being cleared to advance to non-contact practice activities, he still has a few more steps before he can play Sunday.
He would have to pass neurocognitive and balance testing after participating in non-contact, position-specific drills such as running routes and catching the ball. After that, Godwin must be cleared by both a club physician and an independent neurological consultant before he is allowed to return to full practice or a game.
During the session of Friday's practice open to media, Godwin was seen watching practice with what looked like a bandage on his forehead. Arians said Godwin will continue to proceed through the protocol on Saturday.
Godwin was the Bucs' leading receiver in Week 1 with 79 yards on six catches.
