For the first time in 12 years, Buccaneers fans won't be seeing Mike Evans line up at the X for their team.
With the veteran wide receiver planning to sign with a new team in free agency, Evans' agent explained that the multi-time Pro Bowler was looking to compete at the highest level at his next stop and that he still has a ton of love for the Tampa community.
The 32-year-old wideout has been as consistent as they come since being drafted seventh overall out Texas A&M back in 2014. But as his agent says, the Super Bowl LV champ is seeking a "new chapter."
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Mike Evans makes decision on Buccaneers future
Per a statement from Evans' representative Deryk Gilmore (via Adam Schefter): "After twelve remarkable seasons in Tampa Bay, Mike Evans felt a desire to challenge himself with a new chapter in the final stage of his career. Throughout his entire career he has pushed himself to grow, compete, and evolve as a player, and this decision reflects that same mindset."
"Mike has tremendous love and respect for the Buccaneers organization, the Glazer family, the coaches, his teammates, and especially the fans in Tampa Bay who have supported him since the day he was drafted," the release continued. "Tampa will always be home to him, and he is deeply proud of everything they accomplished together."
"At this stage of his career, Mike’s goals remain the same as they have always been — to compete for another Super Bowl, to play in an offensive system that challenges defenses, and to be in an environment where he can continue to push himself and contribute at the highest level."
"Mike Evans’ decision to leave Tampa was never about money. The Buccaneers were extremely aggressive in their pursuit and presented a very strong offer, demonstrating how much they value him and everything he has meant to the franchise," Gilmore clarified. "In the end, this decision simply came down to Mike wanting a new challenge and a fresh opportunity while he still feels he has a great deal left to give the game."
Mike Evans signs with San Francisco 49ers
Shortly after Gilmore's statement, news came down that Evans will be signing a three-year, $60.4 million deal to join Kyle Shanahan and the San Francisco 49ers.
Some speculated that Evans would fetch as much as $27 million per year — which he fell well short of. But he can still be an excellent piece for an offense in need of a big, strong possession receiver and red zone target.
The Bucs will now look to move forward with Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka on the outside. While Evans will be out to prove that he's still a Canton-bound receiver that can lead by example on a winning team.
