Baker's Bucs Draft Mike Evans Replacement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 8:07 AM ET

In the lead-up to the NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' plans were seen to be centered around taking an edge rusher or linebacker in the first round.

That seemed plausible given the Buccaneers' offense was set with Chris Godwin, Mike Evans, Bucky Irving, Cade Otten, and Jalen McMillan, but Tampa Bay threw a spanner in the works with the No. 19 pick as Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka comes to the NFC South.

It is a pick that certainly raised eyebrows given the abundance of talent already at Baker's fingertips, plus the need for defensive reinforcements.

However, Bucs fans can't not be happy with the pick as Egbuka does all the dirty work needed in the run game, and he isn't afraid to put his body on the line for the cause.

A stud slot receiver, Egbuka has good hands and the ball-tracking ability to make off-target throws into completions. Exactly where he fits into the depth chart is unknown, but one thing is for certain—Josh Grizzard will find a place for him.

With Godwin signing a new deal, Evans is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, could this pick be a hint that maybe Evans' time in Tampa Bay is coming to an end? Possibly, but we hope not.

Egbuka now gives Mayfield a receiver room that is the envy of the NFL, with Godwin and Evans leading it, to go with McMillan and Egbuka to learn and eventually take over from the pair.

Many thought it was defense at No. 19, but the Buccaneers zigged when everyone else zagged and landed Egbuka to add some serious fireworks to an offense that already had plenty.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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