Mike Evans' Agent Launches Free Agency Campaign with a Bang - JoeBucsFan.com
February 8th, 2026
Two years ago, Buccaneers legend Mike Evans signed a new two-year contract, declaring his intention to be a "Buc for life." Buccaneers Ring of Honor general manager Jason Licht was beaming with pride, as his first-ever draft pick for Tampa Bay echoed the same sentiment.
Fast forward to today, and Evans finds himself at the end of his contract. His agent, Deryk Gilmore, is on a mission to showcase Evans' continued excellence and health.
Gilmore strategically released a statement to NFL Network, delivered on-air by reporter Mike Garafolo during the pregame show. Garafolo read Gilmore's message with dramatic flair, stating: "Mike [Evans] started the season in peak physical condition. According to those within the organization, he had the best training camp of all. He concluded the season feeling better than he has in years. I believe his competitive spirit will drive him to excel on the field, and that's my hope. Like many fans, I'm thrilled to witness his performance!" (Garafolo noted Gilmore's use of numerous exclamation points in his communications.)
It's clear that Evans is eager to return to the field. But what about the Bucs' offer? With Chris Godwin receiving a lucrative multi-year deal, could Evans feel shortchanged if the Bucs don't match that annual $23 million contract?
The idea of Evans leaving Tampa Bay might seem far-fetched, but history tells a different story. Fans once held similar passions about legends like Jerry Rice, Julio Jones, and Davante Adams. It's a sentiment that resonates even today.
Joe BucsFan hopes the Bucs make the right decision promptly. Baker Mayfield, in a recent interview, expressed confidence that Evans will return (https://www.joebucsfan.com/2026/01/baker-mayfield-is-confident-mike-evans-will-return/).
The free agency period begins on March 9 at noon. The Bucs have the option to apply the franchise tag to Evans as early as February 17, potentially keeping him in Tampa Bay for another season.
