Earlier this month, Evans’ agent set a deadline for an extension to Saturday, telling the Bucs: “When you’ve got a player that’s going into the Hall of Fame and you’ve got four to six more years to make an impression in the league to do, then you.” Move heaven and earth to keep him on your team.
Tampa Bay didn’t move heaven or earth, but neither did Evans. Let’s call it a wash.
The four-time Pro Bowl WR is expected to count $23.7 million against the cap in 2023. Tampa Bay would pocket $9.2 million in dead money this season if it traded the veteran.
Evans said earlier this week that despite his off-field demands, his focus remains on the field and he’s looking forward to a “great season” whether he gets a new contract or not.
“Owners and management will do what they believe is best for the team and the future of the team, and I will do what is best for me and my future,” Evans said. “Right now it’s just about playing well.”
If the Bucs were to part ways with Evans, they would be letting go of one of the most reliable pass catchers in recent NFL history. Evans has recorded at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his nine NFL seasons. Since he didn’t lead the league in receptions, receiving yards, or receiving touchdowns, he is still underrated for his era, but apparently not by the Bucs, who want his presence in what is expected to be a rebuilding year. still appreciate.
Evans and Chris Godwin are expected to once again hold down the receiver corps for the Buccaneers, who traded seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady for former first overall pick Baker Mayfield at quarterback. The pair’s experience should prove invaluable as Tampa Bay’s offense, coordinated by first-time OC Dave Canales, goes through the expected growing pains.
If Sunday’s news is any indication, this season could be the duo’s swansong.