The Giants and Jets are both expected to try to add a top-of-the-range receiver this season, and the market continues to evolve in this position.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reportedly informed Chris Godwin that he will be labeled a franchise, according to several reports, eliminating one of the top free agent options.
The Chicago Bears will also label WR star Allen Robinson, according to several reports.
Detroit Lions receiver Kenny Golladay should still be available, however, because it is not expected to be labeled, according to the NFL Network.
The 25-year-old Godwin totaled 65 receptions for 840 yards and seven touchdowns in 12 games in the regular season last season, before adding another 16 catches from Tom Brady during the Bucs march to a Super Bowl title.
Godwin, who is set to win a $ 15.8 million project if he signs the franchise label, said last month that he expected the move and would probably accept it.
“I will not put myself in a situation where I will be miserable for a few years, just for a few extra dollars,” Godwin said. “I believe that my happiness is paramount in all this, and part of that happiness is gained.”
Robinson in turn comes with 1,000 yards of the season with the Bears, doing so with a combination of Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles in the defensive position. The 27-year-old will return to Chicago after signing a 3-year contract, 42 million dollars in 2018.
Golladay, 27, appeared in just five games last season for Detroit due to a hip injury, finishing with 20 receptions for 338 yards and two touchdowns. In the previous year, however, he averaged 18.3 meters per catch, with 65 receptions for 1,190 meters and 11 touchdowns.
Other recipients of free agents this season include JuJu Smith-Schuster, TY Hilton, Will Fuller, Marvin Jones and Corey Davis.