Mike Evans is not calling it a career just yet.
On Tuesday, the veteran wide receiver’s camp confirmed he plans to suit up for a 13th NFL season and test the open market. After spending his entire career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 32-year-old is ready for a fresh start.
Evans dealt with a frustrating 2025 campaign, appearing in only eight games because of a hamstring injury, a broken collarbone, and a concussion. His production dipped to a career-low 46.0 receiving yards per game with three touchdowns.
Still, the three-time 1,000-yard receiver owns an impressive résumé: six Pro Bowls, the NFL record for 1,000-yard seasons to begin a career (11 straight), and a spot at No. 21 on the all-time receiving yards list.
The Buccaneers now feature younger options at the position, which creates a natural opening for Evans to explore new opportunities this offseason.
From a New England Patriots perspective, the fit makes sense on paper. New England is building around young quarterback Drake Maye, who flashed elite deep-ball ability in 2025. A proven, physical target like Evans could provide reliable hands and red-zone presence without demanding a long-term deal that clogs future cap space.
Evans has delivered consistency for over a decade; pairing that dependability with Maye’s arm talent offers an intriguing upgrade for an offense still searching for steady production outside.
Whether the Patriots pursue him remains to be seen, but the veteran’s availability creates an interesting conversation in Foxborough as free agency approaches.
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