Mike Evans is coming back.
According to ESPN’s Kimberly Martin, the 32-year-old wide receiver is not retiring and will return to the NFL in 2026. He'll do so, however, with a twist. Per his agents, Evans will explore free agency options and not necessarily sign back with the Buccaneers this offseason.
WR Mike Evans WILL return in 2026.
— Kimberley A. Martin (@ByKimberleyA) February 17, 2026
His agents Deryk Gilmore + Darren Jones tell me the future HOFer will play this upcoming season — and *will* explore his free agency options.
One of the league’s most consistent playmakers will be back — but we’ll see if it’ll be w/ the #Bucs
RELATED: 2026 NFL Free Agency: 10 Best Wide Receivers Available
Evans was drafted by Tampa Bay with the No. 7 pick in 2014 and went on to tally 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to begin his career—tied with NFL legend Jerry Rice for the most in NFL history. Unfortunately, a concussion and clavicle injury ended his 2025 season early, stopping his streak.
A two-time second-team All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler, Evans helped the Buccaneers win Super Bowl LV over the Chiefs in 2020. He's signed two contract extensions with the team since his rookie contract expired in 2018—including a two-year, $52 million pact in '24—but will now potentially look elsewhere to cash in once again.
Evans will formally hit unrestricted free agency on March 11, the start of the NFL’s 2026 new league year.
More NFL on Sports Illustrated
- Caleb Williams Sets Extremely Lofty Goal for Bears Offense in 2026 Season
- Patriots Promote Zak Kuhr to Defensive Coordinator
- Mike Evans Destinations: Best Landing Spots for the Veteran WR in NFL Free Agency
- Robert Woods Signs One-Day Contract With Rams, Announces NFL Retirement
This article was originally published on www.si.com as Mike Evans Will Play in 2026, But Return to Buccaneers Is Uncertain.
