Baker Mayfield Confident Mike Evans Will Return for 2026 Season

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield expressed strong confidence that wide receiver Mike Evans will return for the 2026 season, despite speculation surrounding his future. The Buccaneers’ offense struggled throughout the 2025 campaign, failing to meet expectations with a roster considered one of the most talented in the league. A series of injuries and ineffective playcalling hindered their performance, leading to questions about key players’ futures.

Evans, a likely future Hall of Famer, faced significant challenges during the past season. He missed nine games due to injuries, including a hamstring issue early on and a fractured clavicle that sidelined him for a substantial portion of the season. This disruption ultimately broke his streak of consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards, a record he has held for years.

Speculation about Evans’ potential retirement has circulated, with some sources suggesting there is less than a 50% chance he will return to Tampa Bay. However, Mayfield dismissed these rumors during an appearance on Ronde Barber‘s show on WFLA, stating, “Mike’s too much of a competitor and cares too much about Tampa to end his career without 1,000 yards, without a division championship, without a playoff run.”

Mayfield emphasized Evans’ passion for the game, asserting that the veteran receiver is not ready to step away. He noted, “You can just kind of feel it,” reinforcing his belief that Evans is determined to continue his career with the Buccaneers.

In discussing Evans’ future, Mayfield acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with the wide receiver. “I don’t have any info. I’ve told Mike, ‘This is your decision. Take your time doing it.’ But understanding who Mike is, this is my guess — that he doesn’t want to end it that way,” he explained.

As the Buccaneers consider their options, it is also important to note the potential changes on their coaching staff. The arrival of new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson is expected to positively impact the team’s performance. Mayfield believes that if the team can maintain better health and improve their offensive strategy, they can achieve significant progress in the coming season.

Evans showcased his enduring talent late in the 2025 season, particularly in a standout performance against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 15. He caught six passes for 132 yards, demonstrating both his skill on the field and his commitment to the game. His energy and enthusiasm during that match suggested he still has much to contribute.

The idea of Evans departing through free agency seems unlikely, as he has become synonymous with the Buccaneers franchise. While retirement is a possibility, the pressing issue will be whether the team can negotiate a short-term contract that keeps him in Tampa. The franchise tag remains an option, yet it appears both parties are inclined to reach an agreement before the upcoming Super Bowl.

The confidence from Mayfield and others within the organization suggests a strong belief that Evans will continue with the Buccaneers in 2026. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on Evans’ personal feelings about his career and what he hopes to achieve moving forward. The Buccaneers and their fans remain hopeful for a positive resolution as the team prepares for the next season.