ATLANTA, GEORGIA – DECEMBER 10: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers warms up prior to facing the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 10, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
It looks like Mike Evans’ storied 10-year run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may indeed be coming to an end.
According to a report from Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Evans is planning to enter free agency when the market officially opens on Mar. 13. Though Russsini stated that the two sides continue to engage in contract talks, Evans wishes “to explore his options.”
WR Mike Evans plans to hit free agency for the first time in his career, per sources. Tampa and Evans are in discussions but he wants to explore his options. This doesn’t mean Evans' time as a Buc is over, but he plans on hearing from all teams before making a decision.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 2, 2024
Russini noted that this doesn’t completely end Evans’ tenure with the only NFL team he’s ever known, but the fact he’s planning to enter free agency says a lot. Clearly, the Bucs haven’t been willing to meet his asking price.
Evans will certainly be one of the most sought-after free agents when the market opens thanks to his longevity and consistency. He has recorded 1,000 yards receiving in each of his 10 NFL seasons, putting up elite numbers again in 2023 despite the retirement of Tom Brady.
The five-time Pro Bowler was instrumental in helping Baker Mayfield enjoy a career year, hauling in 79 receptions for 1,255 yards and a league-leading 13 touchdown receptions. The 1,255 yards marked Evans’ best total since 2018, when he had 1,321.
The soon-to-be 31-year-old Evans has 762 career receptions for 11,680 yards and 94 touchdowns. Among all active players, only Julio Jones and DeAndre Hopkins have more career receiving yards than the future Hall of Famer.
