TAMPA, Fla. — In Tampa Bay’s enclosed practice venue, wide receiver Mike Evans executed a striking play, sprinting deep into the secondary, making an agile outside cut, and jumping to snag a pristine post-corner throw from quarterback Baker Mayfield. The fans in attendance erupted in applause, accustomed to seeing Evans excel in such spectacular fashion.
Evans, donned in his iconic No. 13 jersey, continues to awe spectators with his remarkable ability to make plays with apparent ease. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 231 pounds, his robust physique allows him either to overpower or deftly maneuver past defenders as necessary. His fluid movement, precise routes, and reliable hands make his contributions consistent and formidable.
The acclaimed wide receiver is the only player ever in the NFL to initiate his career with 11 consecutive seasons surpassing 1,000 yards in receptions, a feat achieved by none other than Jerry Rice at any stage. With the Buccaneers celebrating their 50th season, Evans aims to set a new milestone with a 12th consecutive 1,000-yard season. Despite turning 31, Evans shows no signs of diminishing prowess, focusing on team success over personal accolades.
“I’m thrilled that we’ve got a fantastic team, and we’re leveraging this training camp to ensure we have an exemplary season for our 50th,” Evans shared on Tuesday. “I can’t wait to deliver an exceptional performance for all of you.”
Unlike many wide receivers known for their flamboyant personas like Tyreek Hill, Michael Irvin, and Terrell Owens, Evans lets his on-field performance speak volumes. Known for his quiet demeanor and strong community ties, Evans has been nominated four times for the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year award, recognized for his and his wife Ashli’s charitable work in empowering youth, promoting education, and opposing domestic violence through their foundation.
Drafted by the Buccaneers in 2014 as the seventh overall pick, Evans has emerged as one of the franchise’s iconic figures. Evans, together with teammate Chris Godwin, significantly influenced Tom Brady’s decision to join Tampa Bay in 2020, culminating in a Super Bowl victory that season.
Despite starting his career with quarterbacks like Josh McCown, Mike Glennon, Jameis Winston, and Tom Brady, Evans has consistently performed at a high level. He boasts 836 career receptions for 12,684 yards, scoring 105 touchdowns.
Though Evans missed three games due to injury last season, he still achieved a 1,000-yard season with a critical 9-yard catch in a must-win game against the Saints, sealing the Buccaneers’ fourth consecutive NFC South title.
The show of appreciation and regard from both his teammates and fans highlighted Evans’ cherished status following that pivotal catch.
“He has always placed the team first,” commented Mayfield afterward. “That’s why he’s beloved and appreciated. We’re fortunate to have him and he’s often undervalued by the league and media. He’s unique and deserving of recognition. The reaction from the stadium and sideline signified how much he means to those around him.”
Unlike many seasoned players who are hesitant to guide younger prospects who might one day take their starting roles, Evans and Godwin have embraced mentoring newcomers. The Buccaneers’ recent wide receiver draft picks, Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson, have been eager beneficiaries of their guidance.
Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard remarked on the invaluable mentorship provided by Evans and Godwin, explaining, “They’re exceptionally fortunate, whether it’s for Tez, ‘Mek’ [Egbuka], or Garrett [Greene], to learn from them. We had a walkthrough and Mike and Chris were as involved in teaching as the coaching staff. Beyond the field, I can’t imagine what insights they share about professionalism and conduct. There’s no better environment for these young players to thrive.”