Several of Mike Evans' former Tampa Bay Buccaneers teammates were surprised to see the veteran wide receiver leave in free agency and sign with the San Francisco 49ers. Among them was quarterback Baker Mayfield, who developed a strong connection with Evans during their time together in Tampa Bay.
Speaking to reporters at his youth football camp this week, Mayfield admitted it was difficult to see one of his most trusted playmakers depart for another team.
"There's no way to sugarcoat it," Mayfield said. "It's disappointing to not have him back. Just the caliber player he is. He's a Hall of Famer. Thought he was going to be a Buc for life. Things happen, but luckily, him and I have a great relationship, still be friends for life, and I'll be cheering him on except when we play them, if it comes down to it."
Video: Baker Mayfield, speaking at his young football camp, says Mike Evans leaving was disappointing but it's a chance for other receivers to step up this season. pic.twitter.com/4QLIpdysMF
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) June 5, 2026
The 49ers have significantly reshaped their receiving corps this offseason, adding Evans and Christian Kirk while selecting De'Zhaun Stribling in the NFL Draft. The newcomers help replace Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Skyy Moore, who departed in free agency.
RELATED 49ers' Mike Evans signing left former Bucs teammate stunned
While he's on a new team, Evans' goals remain the same. The veteran wideout hopes to continue being one of the NFL's premier red-zone threats.
"I just want to continue to do what I've been doing my whole career, and that's making plays, being the ultimate team player, and the ultimate playmaker," Evans said on Wednesday. "That's what I really want. And just let these guys know not to take this s--t for granted because you never know what could happen.
"And our roster is a great roster. We stack up with the best of the best in the league, so just not taking these opportunities for granted."
Evans has already made a strong impression on his new teammates. This week, tight end George Kittle praised the veteran receiver's work ethic and potential impact on the 49ers offense in 2026.
"If you look back at the 49ers, this is like the first legit veteran wide receiver I've had on my roster since Emmanuel Sanders in 2019, in my opinion," Kittle said. "Nothing against all the other veteran receivers I've had, but he's a Hall of Famer, who's a first-team All-Pro, Pro Bowl guy. He's an incredible wide receiver."
Comments