Mike Evans to Return for 13th NFL Season, Future with Buccaneers Uncertain

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans has announced his intention to play a 13th NFL season in 2026, but his future with the team remains unclear. The decision comes after a period of contemplation following the conclusion of the 2025 season, during which Evans missed 10 games due to injury.

Evans Weighs Options After Injury-Plagued 2025 Season

Evans, the Buccaneers’ all-time leading scorer, fractured his collarbone and suffered a hamstring injury during the 2025 season. Despite these setbacks, he reportedly had a strong training camp and expressed a desire to continue playing. He stated in December that the collarbone injury made him realize how much he would miss football. ESPN reported that agent Deryk Gilmore informed the team of Evans’ decision on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Negotiations with Buccaneers Loom

Gilmore has notified the Buccaneers that Evans intends to continue his career, and discussions regarding a potential contract extension are expected to begin in the coming weeks. ESPN notes that until an agreement is reached, Evans will explore his options in free agency.

Free Agency Possibilities

The free agent negotiating period begins on March 9, 2026, at noon ET, allowing Evans’ agent to speak with other teams. He could officially sign with a latest team as early as March 11. ESPN recalls that in 2024, Evans re-signed with the Buccaneers on a two-year deal worth up to $52 million with $35 million guaranteed just before the free agent period began.

Addressing Retirement Rumors

Recent online speculation regarding Evans’ potential retirement prompted a statement from his agent, Deryk Gilmore, emphasizing the importance of verifying information directly from Evans’ official platforms. Heavy.com reported that Gilmore urged fans to disregard any posts not originating from Evans’ official pages or his Family Foundation page.

Buccaneers’ Playoff Absence Adds Complexity

The Buccaneers missed the playoffs in the 2025 season, marking the first time since their Super Bowl LV victory in 2020 that they failed to reach the postseason. This could influence Evans’ decision as he considers his options.

Looking Ahead

Although Evans has expressed a desire to remain a “Buc for life,” he is committed to evaluating all available opportunities. The coming weeks will be crucial as he and the Buccaneers determine whether to extend their long-standing relationship or if Evans will embark on a new chapter with another team.