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TAMPA, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 07: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs 31-9. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are officially losing one of the most iconic players in franchise history.

According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, veteran wide receiver Mike Evans is signing with the San Francisco 49ers on a three-year deal, bringing an end to his long tenure in Tampa Bay.

The move gives quarterback Brock Purdy another elite weapon while marking a major shift for the Buccaneers offense moving forward.

The 49ers are giving Evans a three-year, $60.4 million deal, per Adam Schefter.

The move brings an end to Evans’ remarkable 12-year run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and signals a significant shift for both franchises.

Evans was originally the first draft pick made by Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht when Tampa Bay selected the wide receiver with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.

Over the next decade, Evans developed into one of the most consistent and productive receivers of his generation while becoming a cornerstone of the franchise.

Now, after more than a decade in Tampa Bay, the longtime star is preparing for the next chapter of his career.

End of an Era for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Evans’ departure marks the end of one of the most remarkable runs by a wide receiver in NFL history. The veteran wideout built a résumé that places him among the most accomplished pass catchers of the past decade.

Before the 2025 season, Evans recorded 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, tying the legendary streak set by Jerry Rice from 1986 to 1996. His ability to consistently produce regardless of quarterback or offensive system made him a Buccaneers legend forever.

Over his career, Evans has also totaled 108 receiving touchdowns, which ranks among the top marks in NFL history and second among active players behind Davante Adams.

He will especially be remembered for his role in helping the Buccaneers win the Super Bowl during the 2021 season.

However, the 2025 season proved to be the most difficult of Evans’ career.

The veteran receiver appeared in just eight games while battling multiple injuries, including a hamstring strain and a broken collarbone that landed him on injured reserve. He finished the year with 30 receptions for 368 yards and three touchdowns. This marked the first season of his career without reaching 1,000 receiving yards.

Despite that setback, Evans’ legacy in Tampa Bay remains secure as one of the greatest players ever to wear a Buccaneers uniform.

Buccaneers Face New Offensive Direction

With Evans now moving on, Tampa Bay’s wide receiver room will look very different entering the 2026 season.

The group is currently led by veteran playmaker Chris Godwin along with a collection of younger receivers. That includes Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, Tez Johnson and Kameron Johnson.

The change comes as the Buccaneers attempt to regroup after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019.

Following the disappointing season, Tampa Bay made several changes to its coaching staff, including hiring Zac Robinson as the team’s new offensive coordinator.

While the Buccaneers begin building their next chapter, Evans’ departure officially closes the book on one of the most memorable eras in franchise history.

Ian Rapoport summed it up perfecty:

“A day the Tampa Bay Bucs never thought would come.”

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