Mike Evans Leaves Buccaneers for 49ers, Sparking Criticism of QB Baker Mayfield

Fans blame Mayfield's inconsistent play and lack of chemistry with Evans for the star receiver's decision to sign with San Francisco.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans has agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers, leaving his former team. Fans were quick to criticize Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, blaming his poor performance and lack of chemistry with Evans as the main reasons for the star receiver's decision to seek a new team.

Why it matters

Evans' departure is a significant loss for the Buccaneers, who were hoping to keep their star receiver. The move highlights concerns about Mayfield's ability to elevate the team's passing attack and connect with top receivers like Evans. This could put pressure on the Buccaneers' coaching staff and front office to address the quarterback position.

The details

According to reports, Evans wanted to play for a team with a quarterback he believed in, a chance at a Super Bowl, a top-shelf offensive coordinator, and the promise of high-volume targets. The 49ers were able to meet those criteria, leading Evans to sign with the NFC contender. Mayfield's inconsistent play and struggles to consistently target Evans as a top option were seen as major factors in the receiver's decision to leave.

  • In the weeks leading up to free agency, the Buccaneers were ready to let Evans test the market.
  • On March 9, 2026, Evans agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with the 49ers during the league's legal tampering window.

The players

Mike Evans

A future Hall of Fame wide receiver who spent the first nine seasons of his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Baker Mayfield

The starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, whose inconsistent play and lack of chemistry with Evans was seen as a key factor in the receiver's decision to leave the team.

Dan Francisco 49ers

The NFC contender that signed Mike Evans to a three-year, $60 million deal, providing him with the quarterback, coaching staff, and offensive environment he was seeking.

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What they’re saying

“Sadly, this [news] speaks loudly about Baker Mayfield and Todd Bowles.”

— Trevor Sikkema, Pro Football Focus (Twitter)

“[He] doesn't believe in Baker, Baker sucked the second half of the season.”

— Anonymous Fan (Twitter)

“[Expletive] nailed it. It's not just Todd 'Toilet' Bowles, it's Baker and his inconsistencies and horrible ball placement at times. I think Todd gets fired by the end of the season and the OC gets promoted.”

— Anonymous Fan (Twitter)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will need to address the quarterback position and surrounding talent to convince other star players to remain with the team. Evans' departure could also put increased pressure on head coach Todd Bowles and the coaching staff.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of quarterback play and chemistry with top receivers in the NFL. Mayfield's struggles appear to have been a key factor in Evans' decision to leave Tampa Bay, underscoring the need for the Buccaneers to find a long-term solution at the quarterback position.