Mike Evans is expected to become a free agent for the first time in his NFL career and is looking for compensation similar to the productive wide receivers of the past decade.
Evans will be the best receiver on the market once free agency hits, and while there should be plenty of qualified receivers, he hasn’t ruled out a return to Tampa.
But considering what Evans reportedly wants, it may be difficult for the Buccaneers to make it happen.
Evans is seeking a contract with an annual salary in the $25 million range. According to NFL.com’s Jeffrey Chadiha.
And if other reports are to be believed, that number could be even higher.
The Houston Chronicle reported. Last month, it was announced that Evans’ new contract could be worth between $25 million and $30 million annually.
Evans is one of the most consistent wide receivers who has never eclipsed 1,000 receptions in his 10 years in the league, and he is coming off one of the best seasons of his career.
All of this adds up to a hefty salary for the 31-year-old, and the Bucks, who have about $37 million in cap space, will play Evans despite having expressed a desire to bring him back. You may lose your rights.
Evans, who had 79 receptions for 1,255 yards and a career-best 13 touchdowns, is sure to garner interest, and there appears to be some criteria for his next destination.
Evans’ agent, Derrick Gilmore, said: He spoke to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz. Evans seems to want to play with an “elite” quarterback.
“Mike wants to play with elite quarterbacks, run an offense that showcases his strengths, and get paid like a top wide receiver. He doesn’t want to play with a rookie quarterback. No. Winning a Super Bowl is a big priority,” Gilmore said over the weekend.
Considering that criteria, the Jets, with Aaron Rodgers under center, could be the top option.
The paper’s Brian Costello reported that the Jets made multiple inquiries about Evans after the trade deadline, but the Buccaneers were not interested in trading him.
