It is quite clear that once Mike Evans decides to hang up the cleats, he will be a first ballot Hall of Famer. But many are probably wondering when that time will come. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler , that time could be coming sooner than you think.
A Potential Retirement Timeline Emerges
Evans has clearly had a historic career, becoming the first ever receiver to have 11 straight seasons with 1,000 plus receiving yards. Still, he is 33 years old and will be coming off another significant injury next year should he return. He will also be a free agent as well, potentially willing to test the waters and find a new home after spending his whole career as a Buc. Should Evans return to the Bucs, it may be only for one year as the emergence of Emeka Egbuka as a potential WR1 could bump him down the pecking order. If anything, Evans could prove to be a good mentor for the future of the franchise as the receiving corp skews a bit younger.
Still, an ESPN report has given a potential timeline as to when Evans could call it quits. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler also said that it would be in the Bucs’ best interest to retain Evans as part of their core. “He is a top priority because he’s a timeless offensive playmaker. Evans turned 32 in August and is out for an extended period because of a broken collarbone. Retirement is on the table, but he is still a force when healthy. It’s hard to envision him playing in any other color but Bucs pewter next season. The Bucs would like to keep their core together, a preference that will be tested with free agent tight end Cade Otton as well”. These insights definitely reveal a more cautious path forward for the Bucs as they may want to retain key pieces of their success, but also be willing to rely on their younger stars. As Fowler seems to suggest though, Evans will most likely be back. Whether he’s fully healthy upon his return could be key to if next year is his final year.
Injuries and the Final Stretch of a Legendary Career
Injuries have plagued Evans over the last few years, leading many to believe his time is numbered in the NFL. Last year, he missed three games due to a hamstring problem and this year, after his return, he almost instantly broke his clavicle and has not played since. Of course there is a chance he may return should the Bucs reach the playoffs, meaning a more likely 2026 return. His 1,000 yard streak has almost certainly ended, but he has proven to be willing to play after any minor setback in his career. What matters most is that should he return, his pedigree and experienne can usher in a new generation of playmakers for the franchise. No matter what, Bucs fans should be thrilled that a player of Evans’ caliber can be looked to as a leader. Hopefully, he can be a leader for the next couple of years. Bucs fans wouldn’t want it any other way.
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