Mike Evans is one of the top wide receiver free agents who will be on the market. After spending the first 12 years of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it appears that there is a legitimate chance he could sign elsewhere this offseason. While people have been discussing possible fits for him, one team has emerged as a surprise team. Let’s take a look at what one ESPN reporter is saying about Evans’ market right now.
The Washington Commanders could surprisingly sign Mike Evans this offseason
NFL, Mike Evans
Dec 11, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) reacts after catching a pass against Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III (3) (obscured) during the third quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler had an article discussing a lot of different topics ahead of NFL free agency. One of the topics he included was the market for veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, including a sleeper team being involved in talks. Below is what he wrote about Evans’ free agency market:
“The Tampa Bay Buccaneers remain aggressive in attempting to re-sign Mike Evans. Buffalo would have been an ideal fit for Evans before the D.J. Moore trade occupied some of its available cash. The Commanders could emerge as a sleeper for Evans. Remember, he wants a quarterback and targets. Tampa remains in a good spot with Evans but is not a lock to sign him.”
Evans is a six-time Pro Bowler, but was bitten by the injury bug last season. He would only appear in eight games and finished with 30 catches on 62 targets for 368 yards (12.3 yards per reception) with three receiving touchdowns. It was the first season of his career where he failed to reach the 1,000-yard marker.
Washington has a strong wide receiver room with Terry McLaurin and Luke McCaffrey, but are looking for an additional veteran wide receiver to pair with them. It will be intriguing to see where Mike Evans winds up playing next season, whether it is returning to the Bucs for a 13th season or going somewhere else.