Could Mike Evans Trade His Pirate Ship for Steel City?
The idea of Mike Evans donning anything other than Buccaneers gear might seem like a stretch, but with free agency looming, the Steelers and other teams are certainly eyeing the possibility.
The Steelers boast DK Metcalf as a standout No. 1 receiver, yet they lack depth in their receiving corps. Adding a potential future Hall of Famer like Evans could be a game-changer, and financially, Pittsburgh is in a solid position to make it happen.
With over $44.7 million in cap space, they rank among the top eight teams in the NFL for financial flexibility. Evans, with a market value pegged at $26.6 million over two years, fits comfortably within their budget.
On the Buccaneers' side, while there's a strong case for bolstering a defense that finished 20th in the league, especially with promising young receivers like Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, and Tez Johnson waiting in the wings, it's expected that retaining Evans will be a top priority.
Buccaneers GM Jason Licht emphasized the team's commitment to Evans during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. “We’ve had a lot of conversations with him,” Licht said, highlighting the open communication with Evans and his agents. Licht acknowledged Evans' right to explore his options but made it clear that Tampa would love to see him return.
While acquiring Evans is financially feasible for the Steelers, it may not be the most realistic scenario. Evans has spent his entire 12-year career with the Buccaneers, and any move would likely be motivated by a desire to chase a Super Bowl ring. Teams like the Buffalo Bills, who are on the cusp of championship contention, might be more appealing to a veteran like Evans.
The Steelers, on the other hand, haven't won a playoff game in nearly a decade, which could make Pittsburgh a less attractive destination for someone looking to add a championship to their résumé. As Evans weighs his options, the allure of a team ready to compete for a title may ultimately influence his decision.