Is Mike Evans Headed for a New Chapter? Here’s Where the Bucs Legend Could Land Next
Mike Evans has been the heartbeat of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense for over a decade. Drafted 7th overall in 2014, he’s spent twelve seasons redefining consistency at the wide receiver position.
With over 13,000 receiving yards, more than 100 touchdowns, and a Super Bowl ring earned alongside Tom Brady, Evans has carved out a legacy that’s already Hall of Fame-worthy. But as he approaches his age-33 season, the winds of change may be blowing through Tampa.
Reports suggest Evans could be on the move, potentially closing the book on a remarkable run with the Bucs. And while the NFL continues to skew younger, Evans still brings a rare blend of size, route-running savvy, and red zone dominance - the kind that teams with championship aspirations can’t ignore.
So, where could Evans land if he decides to test the waters? Let’s break down three intriguing fits that could make a serious run at prying the veteran wideout away from Tampa Bay.
San Francisco 49ers: Another Weapon for a Loaded Offense
If there’s a team that knows how to maximize offensive talent, it’s the 49ers. Kyle Shanahan has built one of the most dynamic and versatile units in football, and adding a proven veteran like Evans could be the final piece in a championship puzzle.
Quarterback Brock Purdy has shown he can distribute the ball efficiently and make smart decisions under pressure. With a potential opening at wide receiver - especially with their current WR1 approaching free agency - Evans could slide in as a high-impact target without needing to be the focal point. That’s a dangerous proposition for defenses.
Evans’ ability to win contested catches and stretch the field vertically would complement the 49ers’ existing offensive weapons perfectly. And in a “win-now” window, San Francisco could be just aggressive enough to make it happen.
Jacksonville Jaguars: A Florida Fit with Familiar Faces
If Evans wants to stay in Florida, Jacksonville presents a compelling option. The Jaguars are coming off a rollercoaster 2025 season, but they’ve shown flashes of being a legitimate contender. Add in the presence of Liam Coen - a name that’s been floated as a connection point - and things get even more interesting.
Yes, Jacksonville is currently projected to be over the salary cap, but cap space is often more flexible than it looks. Teams find ways to create room when the right player becomes available, and Evans could be that kind of player for the Jags.
He’d be walking into a receiver room that already features Jakobi Meyers, who was acquired at last season’s trade deadline. That means Evans wouldn’t be guaranteed a WR1 role, but he’d be part of a deep, versatile group that could keep defenses guessing. For a veteran looking to compete while staying close to home, Jacksonville might check a lot of boxes.
Baltimore Ravens: A Big-Play Target for Lamar
Baltimore has long been searching for consistent playmakers on the outside, and Evans could finally give them the big-bodied threat they’ve been missing. Lamar Jackson continues to play at an elite level, and with a new coaching regime stepping in after John Harbaugh’s departure, the Ravens could be looking to retool their offense around their franchise quarterback.
The Ravens already have young talent at receiver - Zay Flowers showed real promise, and Rashod Bateman remains a valuable piece - but Evans brings a level of experience and production that could elevate the entire unit. He’s the kind of player who can make a quarterback’s job easier, especially in the red zone and on third down.
Baltimore’s defense has typically carried the load, but with Jackson in his prime, the time to invest in the offense is now. Evans could be the kind of move that signals Baltimore is all-in for 2026.
What’s Next for Evans?
Leaving Tampa Bay wouldn’t be easy. Evans has been the face of the franchise for over a decade, and his impact on and off the field has been massive. But as the Bucs face a potential retooling phase, and with Evans still playing at a high level, a fresh start might make sense for both sides.
Wherever he lands, Evans brings more than just stats - he brings leadership, playoff experience, and the kind of reliability that coaches dream about. And for teams on the cusp of contention, that could be worth every penny.