49ers Predicted to Sign 6-Time Pro Bowl WR in Free Agency

Veteran wide receiver could provide a 'breath of fresh air' for San Francisco's thin receiving corps.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 3:31pm by Ben Kaplan

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Despite numerous injuries, the San Francisco 49ers finished the 2025 regular season with a 12-5 record before losing in the playoffs. With offseason rumors swirling, the 49ers are predicted to add a veteran wide receiver in free agency to bolster their thin receiving room, with Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Mike Evans emerging as a potential target.

Why it matters

The 49ers' passing offense was solid in 2025, ranking 4th in the league, but their wide receiver group lacked standout performers. Adding a proven veteran like Evans could provide a significant boost and help the 49ers return to the playoffs in 2026.

The details

Evans has spent his entire 12-year career with the Buccaneers, making 6 Pro Bowls and winning a Super Bowl. He's been one of the NFL's most consistent wide receivers, topping 1,000 yards in all but one season. In 2023, he posted an impact score of 84.1, the best of his career.

  • The 49ers finished the 2025 regular season with a 12-5 record.
  • The 49ers lost to the Seattle Seahawks 41-6 in the 2025 playoffs.

The players

Mike Evans

A 6-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who has spent his entire 12-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning a Super Bowl and consistently posting over 1,000 receiving yards per season.

Brandon Aiyuk

A wide receiver for the 49ers who suffered a season-ending injury in 2025 after 11 games.

George Kittle

A tight end for the 49ers who suffered a season-ending injury in 2025 after 11 games.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Evans, 49ers. A breath of fresh air for everyone involved. Mike Evans, he goes back to a contender. For the 49ers, just like a very mature wide receiver that they can build around, I think this one makes a lot of sense for both sides.”

— Hayden Winks, Underdog Fantasy Analyst (Underdog Fantasy)

What’s next

The 49ers will need to prioritize signing Mike Evans in free agency this offseason to bolster their thin receiving corps and return to the playoffs in 2026.

The takeaway

Adding a veteran wide receiver like Mike Evans could provide a significant boost to the 49ers' passing offense and help them return to the playoffs, proving that even with key injuries, a contending team can still find ways to improve through free agency.