Buccaneers Legend Mike Evans Nears Free Agency

After 12 seasons in Tampa, the star wide receiver could be on the move.

Mar. 8, 2026 at 2:53pm

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Mike Evans, the star wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is set to become a free agent on Monday. Evans has spent his entire 12-year NFL career with the Buccaneers, during which he has quietly built a strong case for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His teammate Chris Godwin hopes Evans will re-sign with the Buccaneers, but Evans is expected to have interest from several other teams, including the 49ers, Chargers, Commanders, and Giants.

Why it matters

Evans' potential departure from the Buccaneers would mark the end of an era for the franchise, as he has been a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. His free agency decision could have significant implications for the Buccaneers' offense and their chances of contending in the NFC.

The details

During his 12 seasons in Tampa, Evans has recorded 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, tying the all-time record held by Jerry Rice. He has amassed 866 catches, 13,052 receiving yards, and 108 touchdowns, ranking him 31st in career catches, 21st in receiving yards, and 10th in receiving touchdowns. Evans was also a member of the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV championship team.

  • Mike Evans becomes a free agent on Monday, March 13, 2026.
  • Two years ago, Evans re-signed with the Buccaneers before hitting the free agent market.

The players

Mike Evans

A star wide receiver who has spent his entire 12-year NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, during which he has quietly built a strong case for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Chris Godwin

Evans' teammate on the Buccaneers, who hopes that Evans will re-sign with the team.

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What they’re saying

“It would be so weird. I can't imagine talking to him on a different field and seeing him in a different jersey.”

— Chris Godwin, Buccaneers wide receiver

What’s next

The Buccaneers and other interested teams will have until Monday afternoon to negotiate a new contract with Mike Evans before he officially becomes a free agent.

The takeaway

Mike Evans' potential departure from the Buccaneers would mark the end of an era for the franchise, as he has been a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. His free agency decision could have significant implications for the Buccaneers' offense and their chances of contending in the NFC.