Wide receiver Mike Evans has spent his entire 13-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
However, that could change in 2026. On Tuesday, Evans’ agents, Deryk Gilmore and Darren Jones, revealed that Evans will play in 2026, but he will weigh his options when free agency begins.
WR Mike Evans WILL return in 2026.
— Kimberley A. Martin (@ByKimberleyA) February 17, 2026
His agents Deryk Gilmore + Darren Jones tell me the future HOFer will play this upcoming season — and *will* explore his free agency options.
One of the league’s most consistent playmakers will be back — but we’ll see if it’ll be w/ the #Bucs
Evans was selected at No. 7 overall in 2014 by the Buccaneers after an impressive college career at Texas A&M.
Evans then began his career with 11 straight 1,000-yard seasons, and he set the record for most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to begin an NFL career. However, Evans sits behind Jerry Rice, who has a total of 14 such seasons in his legendary career.
On October 20, against the Detroit Lions, Evans had to be carted off the field after suffering an injury. He was later diagnosed with a broken collarbone, and he was sidelined until returning on December 11 against the Atlanta Falcons.
That put an end to Evans’ impressive 1,000-yard streak as he had 30 receptions for 368 yards with three touchdowns on the season.
Evans’ agent released a statement on Monday regarding “false and misleading” posts about Evans online, with some even suggesting he was considering retirement.
Way too much misinformation out there. Mike Evans’ agent, Deryk Gilmore, sets it straight. pic.twitter.com/p8jjxnROKd
— Rob Maaddi (@RobMaaddi) February 16, 2026
The 2026 WR free agent class also will include Alec Pierce, Romeo Doubs, George Pickens, and Tyreek Hill, with the latter just being released by the Miami Dolphins on Monday.
