After spending 12 years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, wide receiver Mike Evans has decided to take his talents to the NFC West.
It was reported on Monday night that Evans' agreement with the San Francisco 49ers is a three-year, $42.2 million contract that includes $16.3 million guaranteed. Although he's nearing the late stages of his career, he still had a strong market in free agency. That's not a huge surprise considering he had 866 catches for 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns during his time with the Buccaneers.
The Glazer family, which owns the Buccaneers, released a classy statement on Evans' decision to join the 49ers.
"Saying goodbye to a legend such as Mike Evans is never easy, but today we are filled with appreciation and gratitude for all that he did during his extraordinary 12-year career as a Buccaneer," the Glazer family said. "Our goal was always to ensure that Mike would play his entire career as a Buccaneer, but as we got further in the process it became clear he was looking for a new challenge. He leaves as the most accomplished offensive player in franchise history - a six-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl champion - but it was his dedication to making a difference off the field that will define his lasting legacy in our community. We wish Mike continued success in his next chapter and thank him for all that he has done for the Buccaneers and Tampa Bay."
While the owners of the Buccaneers appear to be at peace with Evans' decision, Tampa Bay's fan base is convinced the front office chose Todd Bowles over the best wide receiver in franchise history.
"Glazers chose Todd Bowles.. they chose this path," a Buccaneers fan said. "Mike had enough of barely getting in the playoffs and had enough of Todd Bowles declining defense.. this year bubble burst we collapsed you fire that loser right there.. no they retained him. M1K3 was gone as soon as that happened."
"FIRE JASON LICHT," a second fan wrote.
"Oh, they are done! and the season hasn't even started, lol. Fire Bowles and Licht, time for a rebuild," a social media user added.
"Back to the lost decade! Should've fire Bowles. Honestly, as much as I respect Jason Licht, he needs to go too," another fan commented.
Mike Evans wanted a new challenge.
According to Evans' agent, Deryk Gilmore, the veteran wideout's departure wasn't influenced by Tampa Bay's coaching staff. He just wanted a change of scenery at this stage in his career.
"After twelve remarkable seasons in Tampa Bay, Mike Evans felt a desire to challenge himself with a new chapter in the final stage of his career," Gilmore said. "Throughout his entire career he has pushed himself to grow, compete, and evolve as a player, and this decision reflects that same mindset."
Time will tell if Evans closes out his career with a successful stint in San Francisco. As for the Buccaneers, it's safe to say their current regime is feeling some pressure.
Copyright The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved