News - Mike Evans is considering a return to the NFL and is keeping his options open.

In a twist that's capturing the attention of NFL fans and analysts alike, star wide receiver Mike Evans has announced plans to return for a 13th NFL season in 2026. This declaration comes after a disappointing 2025 season marred by injuries, which many believed might be the end of his illustrious career. However, Evans, through his agent Deryk Gilmore, has confirmed his comeback and disclosed his intention to explore free agency, potentially departing from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team he has symbolized since being drafted in 2014. Evans’ legacy with the Bucs is undeniable. Drafted seventh overall in 2014, the athlete quickly became the face of the franchise, renowned for his remarkable consistency, achieving 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons—a feat only shared with Jerry Rice. However, his 2025 season was one rife with setbacks. A severe hamstring injury followed by a broken collarbone restricted him to just 30 catches for 368 yards—ending his streak and igniting retirement speculations. Despite his setbacks, Evans’ passion for the sport remains undiminished. Eye witness accounts from recent training camps emphasize his enduring athleticism and determination, traits that have only intensified during his recovery period. This drive underscores his confidence as he steps into free agency, ready to assess his worth in the marketplace. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now facing a critical juncture. As much as Evans is cherished by fans and teammates alike, the economic implications cannot be ignored. Currently, Evans’ contract accounts for $13 million in dead cap space for 2026, placing financial strain on the team, which has approximately $23.9 million in projected cap space—a reality that complicates their ability to retain him without hampering other team-building initiatives. Potential suitors for Evans include teams with championship aspirations, eager to leverage his red-zone prowess and leadership. At 6-foot-5, Evans remains a formidable presence on the field capable of tipping the scales in high-stakes situations, an asset not easily replaceable given his unique skills. Ultimately, Evans’ decision to test the free agency waters reflects a calculated belief in his ongoing value and capabilities. As March approaches, marking the beginning of free agency negotiations, the NFL community will be on high alert, tracking where this veteran talent will next take flight. Whatever happens come September 2026, one fact is unequivocal: Mike Evans will be making spectacular plays somewhere, continuing his journey in the NFL—whether under new colors or alongside the familiar roar of Buccaneer cannons. His career remains a testament to excellence and resilience, qualities bound to manifest wherever his path leads next.