Mike Evans decides on 2026 NFL season, per report
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Mike Evans will give it another go in 2026.
ESPN’s Kimberley A. Martin was told by Evans’ agents that he will look to play another professional season. The former Texas A&M star turns 33 ahead of the 2026 season.
Evans has spent all 12 of his NFL seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He’s a free agent, however, and will explore his options for Year 13.
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 has had a decorated career in Tampa Bay. He’s the first wide receiver in NFL history to record 1,000 yards or more in each of his first 11 seasons. He’s tied with the legendary Jerry Rice for most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons (11).
The 1,000-yard streak was snapped last year. Evans was limited to playing in just 8 games and logged 30 catches for 368 yards and 3 touchdowns. For his career, he has 866 receptions for 13,052 yards and 108 in regular-season play. He also has 52 receptions for 801 yards and 6 scores in postseason action.
Other accolades for Evans include 6 Pro Bowl selections and being named second-team All-Pro twice (2016, ’23). He helped the Bucs win Super Bowl LV for the 2020 season. Evans led all pass-catchers in receiving touchdowns in the 2023 season with 13. His career-high is 14 receiving TDs in a season (2021).
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
