Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht drafted star wide receiver Mike Evans in 2014, and Licht spoke publicly regarding Evans' departure for the first time on Wednesday.
“I don’t feel betrayed. I’m in mourning,” Licht told reporters via ESPN's Jenna Laine.
Evans left the Buccaneers for the San Francisco 49ers last week in free agency after 12 seasons in Tampa. A Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowler, Evans has 866 receptions for 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns in his career.
“Mike gave us everything he had for his 12 seasons here and established himself as one of the best players in the league,” Licht continued. “So to say it again, one of our best players we’ve ever had - I don’t feel betrayed. He earned the right. I said that over and over."
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"He earned the right to make this decision," Licht continued. "And sometimes you’ve got to talk it over with your family and just sometimes you’re just ready for another chapter.”
Evans expressed his appreciation for his time in Tampa and explained it was a football-related decision when he talked with the San Francisco media last week. The Buccaneers enjoyed the most successful stint in franchise history with Evans amid a Super Bowl win, four consecutive NFC South championships, and five straight playoff appearances.
Evans will now look to help the 49ers contend for a Super Bowl after the team got knocked out in the Divisional Round last season. The 49ers had one of best offenses in the league last season, but needed a stronger No. 1 wide receiver, which Evans gives them. Tampa Bay meanwhile missed the playoffs last season, as Evans missed time due to injuries.
“He means everything to me, but he means everything to the entire organization,” Licht said. “Obviously best offensive player we’ve ever had and even better person than he is player. So it’s always tough."
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