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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have sealed the deal with five-time Pro Bowl receiver Mike Evans, agreeing on a two-year, $52 million contract extension with $35 million guaranteed, as revealed by his agent, Deryk Gilmore, to ESPN on Monday.
This agreement not only ensures Evans’ presence on the Buccaneers’ roster but also presents an opportunity for him to potentially remain with the team throughout his career, embodying the notion of being a “Buc for life” in Tampa.
Financial Structure
Gilmore said that this contract is the biggest for a wide receiver of this age on his third contract. It is a front-loaded contract, with $29 million out of the $41 million base value due at signing, according to Gilmore.
“Fire Them Cannons!” Evans enthusiastically posted on Instagram in response to the news.
Impact on Mayfield
The retention of Evans not only bolsters the Buccaneers’ offense but also enhances their appeal in retaining free agent quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has expressed his desire to continue playing alongside the standout receiver.
“He’s an unprecedented player. We want him to be a Buc for life,” general manager Jason Licht said last week at the NFL combine.
Free Agency Status
Evans was ready to become a free agent when talks start on March 11. He was projected to be one of the best wide receivers available. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs were likely to be interested in signing him.
Other top free agent wide receivers include Tee Higgins, Michael Pittman, Calvin Ridley, Odell Beckham Jr., and Michael Thomas.
The Bucs and Evans couldn’t agree on a deal before the 2023 regular season began. They put discussions on hold until after the season when they missed a September 9 deadline.
Performance in 2023
Evans, aged 30, shrugged off any past disappointments and delivered one of the best performances of his career during the 2023 season. Tying for a league-leading 13 receiving touchdowns and surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the 10th consecutive season, he solidified his status as a premier receiver in the NFL.
Career Highlights and Off-field Contributions
The Bucs selected Evans seventh overall in the 2014 NFL draft. Since then, Evans has been a cornerstone of the team, earning five Pro Bowl selections and garnering recognition for his exceptional contributions on and off the field.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Evans’ philanthropic efforts through the Mike Evans Family Foundation have made a significant impact, providing scholarships to students in Florida and Texas and supporting victims of domestic violence. His children’s book, “The Middle School Rules of Mike Evans,” offers inspiration by sharing his personal journey of overcoming adversity, reflecting his resilience and character.
This report used information from ESPN.
