It appears veteran wide receiver Mike Evans was determined to join the San Francisco 49ers in free agency—even if it meant leaving money on the table.
According to Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht, the team offered Evans more than what he ultimately accepted from San Francisco. Licht shared the details during a recent conversation with Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.
"I feel like we did everything we could. I had a lot of talks with Mike about that," Licht said.
Jason Licht on Mike Evans leaving for the 49ers. "I feel like we did everything we could. I had a lot of talks with Mike about that," Licht said. He added the Bucs offer was actually for more money.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 18, 2026
ESPN's Jenna Laine added that the offer from the Buccaneers was "significantly higher" than the one from the 49ers and suggested the team was willing to offer even more.
Bucs general manager Jason Licht said of the team trying to keep Mike Evans: "We made a significantly higher offer [than the 49ers] and that was just the first offer." He added, "I feel like we did everything we could."
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) March 18, 2026
Evans didn't burn any bridges on his way out. Licht emphasized that the longtime Buccaneers receiver had earned the right to make his own decision after 12 seasons with the organization and was likely seeking a new challenge.
"I don't feel betrayed," Licht added. "He earned the right to make the decision … he loves this team. He loves everything about it … I think he wanted a new challenge."
"I don't feel betrayed. He earned the right to make the decision…he loves this team. He loves everything about it…I think he wanted a new challenge." GM Jason Licht on Mike Evans signing with the 49ers.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 18, 2026
Speaking with Bay Area reporters, Evans confirmed that leaving Tampa Bay—the only NFL team he had previously played for—was not easy. However, the opportunity to join the 49ers and play for head coach Kyle Shanahan was a major factor in his decision.
"I've always appreciated how the Niners went about their business on the football field," Evans said. "And I've got some guys here that have always told me great things about this organization, and I've always loved the way Kyle calls the games."
As Evans prepares to enter his 13th NFL season, the accomplished receiver remains motivated to prove he is still among the league's elite after failing to surpass 1,000 receiving yards last season—a first in his lengthy career.
"I always feel like I've got to prove something," Evans said. "I always feel like I can be better. And I want to show that I'm still who people believe that I am, and that's one of the best to ever do it."
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