Chargers Eyeing Veteran WR Mike Evans in Free Agency

The Chargers are reportedly monitoring the market for the former Buccaneers star.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Los Angeles Chargers are reportedly keeping a close eye on veteran wide receiver Mike Evans as he explores his options in free agency this offseason. Evans, who spent the past 11 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is coming off an injury-plagued 2025 campaign where he missed significant time due to a broken collarbone and concussion. With the Buccaneers moving on to younger talent at the position, Evans could be an intriguing target for the Chargers as they look to add depth and experience to their receiving corps.

Why it matters

The Chargers' receiving group could use a veteran presence alongside rising star Ladd McConkey, especially if the team is unable to re-sign longtime wideout Keenan Allen in free agency. Evans, a seven-time Pro Bowler, would provide that veteran leadership and proven production if he joins the Bolts.

The details

Evans, 32, is exploring his options in free agency after spending his entire 11-year career with the Buccaneers. In addition to the Chargers, the 49ers, Bills, Commanders, and Giants are also reportedly monitoring Evans' market. The Buccaneers appear ready to move on from Evans with the emergence of Emeka Egbuka, who had a breakout sophomore season in 2025 with 63 receptions for 938 yards and 6 touchdowns.

  • Evans sustained a broken collarbone and concussion in the 2025 season, causing him to miss more than half the year.
  • Egbuka is entering his third NFL season in 2026 after a standout 2025 campaign.

The players

Mike Evans

A 32-year-old veteran wide receiver who spent the past 11 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Evans is a seven-time Pro Bowler who is exploring his options in free agency this offseason.

Emeka Egbuka

The Buccaneers' rising young wide receiver who emerged as the team's top target in 2025, recording 63 receptions for 938 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Keenan Allen

The Chargers' longtime starting wide receiver who is set to become a free agent this offseason. The Chargers are unsure if they will be able to re-sign Allen.

Ladd McConkey

A young wide receiver for the Chargers who is expected to play a bigger role in the offense in 2026 and beyond.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Chargers will continue to monitor Evans' free agency situation and evaluate whether he would be a good fit for their roster and salary cap. If Evans does not re-sign with the Buccaneers, he could draw significant interest from several teams looking to add a veteran wide receiver.

The takeaway

The Chargers' potential pursuit of Mike Evans highlights their need to add more experience and depth to their receiving corps, especially if they are unable to re-sign Keenan Allen. Evans would provide a proven playmaker and veteran presence alongside the team's younger wideouts like Ladd McConkey.