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Mike Evans Returning for 13th NFL Season
18 Feb
Summary
- Veteran receiver Mike Evans confirms plans to play his 13th season.
- Evans will test free agency for the first time in years.
- He achieved 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before 2025.
Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans has officially announced his intention to play in the 2026 NFL season. His representation confirmed that he will test the free agency market for the first time in his career, putting an end to months of speculation regarding his future.
Despite a challenging 2025 season marked by hamstring and collarbone injuries that limited him to eight games, Evans is committed to continuing his playing career. He recorded 30 receptions for 368 yards and three touchdowns in the abbreviated season. Before 2025, Evans had an extraordinary streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, a feat matched only by Jerry Rice.
Evans has spent his entire career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since being drafted in 2014. He has been a consistent offensive force, contributing to the team's Super Bowl LVI victory and earning six Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. The Buccaneers now face a decision balancing fan sentiment and strategic considerations, including Evans' age, recent injuries, and salary cap implications.
