March 10, 2026, 9:03 a.m. ET
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported on a flurry of moves on Monday, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will lose a key player but will retain a star as well.
The Buccaneers have agreed to an extension with tight end Cade Otton on a three-year deal with an undisclosed amount of money. Reports have stated that the contract could be upwards of the $20 million range.
Otton was a hot commodity on the free-agent market, given how well he played last season as a security blanket for quarterback Baker Mayfield and how many targets he racked up. In 63 career games, Otton has totaled 207 receptions for 2,018 yards and 11 touchdowns.
On Monday, the team decided to part ways with star wide receiver Mike Evans, who has agreed to join the San Francisco 49ers on a 3-year deal as well. Re-signing Otton was a priority for Tampa Bay, especially after the loss of Evans. Still, the team does not know whether Chris Godwin could stay healthy enough to contribute at a full, much-needed level, which was a factor in the decision to move forward with Otton.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.