Buccaneers Seek Explosive Tight End to Replace Mike Evans

Mel Kiper projects Kenyon Sadiq as the Buccaneers' top draft target to fill the void left by the star receiver's departure.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:04pm by Ben Kaplan

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With Mike Evans signing with the San Francisco 49ers, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking to the upcoming NFL Draft to find his replacement. According to ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper, the Buccaneers are eyeing Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq as a potential first-round pick to fill the void left by Evans' $60 million departure.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers are entering a transitional period after losing their franchise receiver in Evans, who was a key part of their Super Bowl-winning team. Acquiring a dynamic tight end like Sadiq could help maintain their offensive firepower and provide a new mismatch threat in the passing game.

The details

Sadiq emerged as a top prospect after a standout performance at the NFL Combine, including a record-setting 4.39-second 40-yard dash time for a tight end. At 6-foot-3, he possesses the size and athleticism to be a versatile weapon in the Buccaneers' offense, which utilized two-tight end sets heavily last season under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.

  • Mike Evans signed a three-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers on March 15, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Mike Evans

A 12-year veteran and franchise cornerstone for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Evans recently departed the team to sign with the San Francisco 49ers on a three-year contract.

Kenyon Sadiq

A tight end prospect from the University of Oregon, Sadiq is projected by ESPN's Mel Kiper to be a potential first-round selection for the Buccaneers in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Zac Robinson

The new offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who utilized two-tight end sets at a high rate in his previous coaching role.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I will always be a Buc at heart.”

— Mike Evans (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will have the opportunity to select Kenyon Sadiq or another top tight end prospect with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled for April 24-26.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers face a critical offseason as they look to replace the production and leadership of franchise icon Mike Evans. Drafting a dynamic tight end like Kenyon Sadiq could help the team maintain their offensive firepower and provide a new mismatch threat in the passing game as they transition to a new era.