Mike Evans isn’t ready to walk away.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers legend intends to play in 2026, but where he’ll suit up remains one of the biggest storylines of the upcoming NFL free agency period. According to ESPN’s Kimberley A. Martin, the 32-year-old wide receiver plans to explore the open market when the negotiating window opens on March 9.
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Evans’ 2025 season never truly got off the ground. A hamstring injury sidelined him early, and just as he returned to the lineup, he suffered a concussion and broken collarbone. The result? Only eight games played, 30 receptions, 368 yards and three touchdowns — numbers far below his usual standard.
For the first time in his career, Evans failed to reach 1,000 receiving yards. His streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to begin a career tied Jerry Rice for the longest such run in NFL history. It was one of the most remarkable feats of consistency the league has ever seen.
Even in limited action, flashes of the old Evans were there. In his first game back from the collarbone injury, he erupted for six catches and 132 yards, reminding everyone why he’s been one of the NFL’s premier deep threats for more than a decade.
At 6-foot-5 and 231 pounds, Evans remains a matchup nightmare. From 2014 through 2024, he scored 105 receiving touchdowns — the most in the league during that span. That stretch included 13 touchdowns in 2023 and 11 more in 2024. His size, catch radius and red-zone dominance haven’t disappeared.
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A six-time Pro Bowler and one of the most iconic players in Buccaneers history, Evans now faces a pivotal offseason decision. CBS Sports recently ranked him the No. 17 free agent available, suggesting there will be no shortage of interest.
Whether he stays in Tampa Bay or finds a new contender, one thing is clear: Mike Evans plans to keep chasing touchdowns in 2026.







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