Mike Evans Keeping Options Open in Free Agency

Chargers, 49ers, Commanders and Giants among possible suitors if Evans leaves Buccaneers

Mar. 8, 2026 at 4:51pm

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Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans will keep his options open as he enters free agency for the first time in his 12-year NFL career. After a down season in 2025 due to injuries, the six-time Pro Bowler is expected to have several suitors if he does not re-sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including the Chargers, 49ers, Commanders and Giants.

Why it matters

Evans has been a key part of the Buccaneers' offense since being drafted in 2014, helping the team win a Super Bowl in 2021. His potential departure would be a significant loss for Tampa Bay as they look to rebound from missing the playoffs last season.

The details

Evans, 32, finished the 2025 season with just 30 catches for 368 yards and 3 touchdowns, the worst statistical year of his career. He missed time due to a hamstring strain, broken collarbone and concussion. Despite the down year, Evans is still expected to draw interest from several teams in free agency.

  • Evans has spent his first 12 NFL seasons with the Buccaneers.
  • The Buccaneers won the Super Bowl in 2021 with Evans as a key part of their offense.
  • The Buccaneers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2019 last season.

The players

Mike Evans

A 32-year-old wide receiver who has spent his entire 12-year NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The NFL team that drafted Mike Evans in 2014 and he has played for his entire career, helping them win a Super Bowl in 2021.

Chargers, 49ers, Commanders, Giants

Potential suitors for Mike Evans in free agency if he does not re-sign with the Buccaneers.

Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., Jalen McMillan

Wide receivers on the Buccaneers who could see increased roles if Evans departs in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Evans will keep his options open going into free agency for the first time in his NFL career.”

— Diana Russini, Reporter

What’s next

The Buccaneers will reportedly attempt to re-sign Evans, but if they are unable to, the team's other young wide receivers like Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr. and Jalen McMillan will likely see increased roles in the offense.

The takeaway

After a down year due to injuries, the future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans is set to hit free agency for the first time in his career. His potential departure from the Buccaneers would be a significant loss, but it could also open the door for Tampa Bay's younger receivers to step up and play a bigger role in the offense.