Longtime Bucs Star Mike Evans Bids Farewell to Tampa Bay

Wide receiver thanks fans, reflects on Super Bowl win as he departs for 49ers

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:53pm by Ben Kaplan

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Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans has penned a heartfelt farewell message to Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans after 12 seasons with the team. Evans, who is joining the San Francisco 49ers in free agency, expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Bucs fanbase and reflected on the team's Super Bowl championship in 2020.

Why it matters

Evans was a cornerstone of the Buccaneers' offense for over a decade, establishing himself as one of the franchise's all-time greats. His departure marks the end of an era in Tampa Bay as the team looks to rebuild following Tom Brady's retirement.

The details

In a post shared on social media, Evans thanked Buccaneers fans for welcoming him to Tampa and supporting him throughout his career. He reflected on the highs and lows the team experienced, including their Super Bowl victory in 2020. While Evans is moving on to the 49ers, he emphasized that he will 'always be a Buc at heart' and encouraged fans to continue following his journey.

  • Evans was drafted by the Buccaneers in the first round in 2014.
  • The Buccaneers won the Super Bowl in 2020 during Evans' tenure with the team.
  • Evans is departing Tampa Bay in free agency to join the San Francisco 49ers.

The players

Mike Evans

A veteran wide receiver who spent 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, establishing himself as one of the franchise's all-time greats.

San Francisco 49ers

The NFL team that Mike Evans is joining in free agency after leaving the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Tom Brady

The legendary quarterback who retired from the NFL, leading to the Buccaneers' need to rebuild following Evans' departure.

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What they’re saying

“Tampa quickly became home after I arrived as a first-round pick in 2014 and I want to thank the fans for the support they showed me throughout my career.”

— Mike Evans, Longtime Buccaneers wide receiver (X)

“Although I have now moved on to the San Francisco 49ers in search of the Lombardi Trophy, the connection I built with Tampa Bay and its fans will always remain meaningful to me.”

— Mike Evans, Longtime Buccaneers wide receiver (X)

What’s next

Evans will look to continue his success with the San Francisco 49ers as he aims to win his first Super Bowl championship.

The takeaway

Mike Evans' departure from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers marks the end of an era for the franchise, as they must now rebuild without one of their most iconic players of the past decade. However, Evans' lasting impact on the team and the city will not be forgotten, as he departs with the respect and appreciation of Buccaneers fans.