With Mike Evans heading to the San Francisco 49ers, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers find themselves in a bit of a bind. Evans, a cornerstone of their offense, leaves a big void as the team's X receiver. While Tampa Bay still boasts a talented wide receiver group with Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., Jalen McMillan, and Tez Johnson, none quite fit the mold of an X receiver like Evans did.
The Bucs have some decisions to make with their seven draft picks, especially with pressing defensive needs. However, if they decide to address their receiving corps, one name stands out: Elijah Sarratt.
Sarratt, coming out of Indiana, has turned heads with his stellar college career. A key player in Indiana's National Championship run and a major factor in quarterback Fernando Mendoza’s Heisman campaign, Sarratt has proven he can perform at the highest level.
Over his college tenure, he racked up 44 receiving touchdowns, including 15 in the 2025 season alone. Averaging 60 catches, 919 yards, and 11 touchdowns per season, his numbers speak volumes.
His 15 yards per reception are close to Evans’ college average of 16.5, showcasing his ability to stretch the field.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Sarratt might not match Evans’ size, but he brings a similar physicality. Known for his prowess in contested catch situations, he earned the nickname "Waffle House" because, as they say, he's always open. With over 50% success in contested catches throughout his college career, he’s a reliable target in tight spots.
Adding to the intrigue is Sarratt’s connection to Tampa Bay’s new quarterbacks coach, Chandler Whitmer. Whitmer, who was Indiana's co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2025, witnessed Sarratt’s skills firsthand. His insights into Sarratt’s character and work ethic could be invaluable during the draft process.
Replacing a legend like Evans, who dominated as the primary boundary receiver and red zone threat for over a decade, is no small feat. While the Bucs may never find another Mike Evans, Sarratt could be the next best thing to fill that role with his physical presence and reliability.
For quarterback Baker Mayfield, Sarratt’s ability to win in the red zone and on 50/50 balls would be a dream come true. Projected as a Day 2 pick, landing Sarratt in the third round would be a steal for Tampa Bay, potentially providing a significant boost to their offense.