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Update:
The Buccaneers currently don’t have any intention to trade wide receiver Mike Evans, despite having no plans to extend the Pro-Bowler, according to CBS’s Jonathan Jones.
Original Story:
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers reportedly have no intentions of signing star wide receiver Mike Evans to a contract extension at this time, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
Mike Evans, now 30 years old, had set a deadline for the Buccaneers to reach a long-term deal with him, with that deadline expiring this Saturday.
WR Mike Evans —who wants to finish his career a Tampa Bay Buc—gave the team a deadline of 9/9/23 to offer a contract extension. While the team values Evans, there are no plans for an extension at this time, per league sources.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) September 8, 2023
If a deal is not reached by that time, it appears that Evans’ illustrious career with the Buccaneers may be drawing to a close.
If the Buccaneers want to avoid losing Evans to free-agency for nothing for a compensatory pick, they might consider trading him while his value is high, right now as the season is starting.
Evans, who’s the king of 1,000 yards receiving, has consistently delivered exceptional performance for Tampa Bay since being drafted in the first round in 2014.
Impressively, he has achieved over 1,000 receiving yards in each season of his career, spanning nine seasons and counting. However, the uncertain contract situation raises questions about his future with the team beyond the 2023 season.
It’s fair to wonder if Evans’ remarkable streak of 1,000-yard seasons will continue, considering he’s playing with a new quarterback, Baker Mayfield.
As Evans approaches the twilight of his career, the NFL world watches closely to see how this contract stand