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Mike Evans' Future Update Emerges Amid Departure Rumors
Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Mike Evans has been a cornerstone piece for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since he was drafted in 2014. Evans was selected with the seventh overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

He has played all 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, accumulating 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns, both of which are franchise records. Evans achieved an impressive feat by recording over 1,000 receiving yards for 11 consecutive seasons, tying the NFL record established by Jerry Rice. However, this streak was broken this year, as he managed to gain only 368 yards in eight games due to injuries.

Evans is entering free agency, and there are rumors that he may not return to the Buccaneers for the next season. NFL draft analyst Tony Pauline has indicated that he believes there is less than a 50% chance that Evans will re-sign with Tampa Bay.

"Those I’ve spoken with over the past week believe it’s less than 50-50 the veteran wideout re-signs with Tampa and that his career with the Buccaneers is likely finished," Pauline wrote. "He’d like to go to a contender and win another title."

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans makes a catch for a touchdown.Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

However, this was quickly refuted by Bucs beat writer for the Tampa Bay Times, Rick Stroud. He posted on X, "Mike Evans hasn’t made any decisions about his career or had the first conversation with the Bucs or his agent about his plans. And there as of today. Believe who you want to believe."

The speculation around Evans highlights the uncertainty surrounding the Buccaneers as they enter a pivotal offseason. After a season derailed by injuries, Evans’ statistical dip has fueled outside questions, even though his résumé as one of the most consistent wide receivers in NFL history remains unquestioned within the organization and fan base.

From a football standpoint, Evans still holds significant value, whether in Tampa Bay or elsewhere. His size, red-zone presence and track record of production make him an attractive option for contenders looking for a proven veteran, especially one motivated to chase another Super Bowl ring. At the same time, the Buccaneers must weigh his future against roster turnover, cap considerations and a potential transitional period for the franchise.

For now, any final decision appears premature. Evans has not yet spoken with the team or his agent per reports, and Tampa Bay’s priorities will become clearer once free agency approaches. The Buccaneers’ offseason officially begins in March, with the new league year set to open shortly thereafter, a timeline that will ultimately determine whether one of the franchise’s greatest players continues his career in red and pewter or begins a new chapter elsewhere.

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

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