Mike Evans' Agent Launches Free Agency Campaign with a Bang - JoeBucsFan.com
February 8th, 2026
Two years ago, Buccaneers legend Mike Evans committed to Tampa Bay with a new two-year contract, declaring his intention to be a "Buc for life."
Buccaneers Ring of Honor general manager Jason Licht shared the sentiment, smiling alongside his first-ever draft pick for the team. "Buc for life" became the catchphrase of March 2024.
However, fate has now led Evans to the end of his contract, and his agent, Deryk Gilmore, is determined to showcase Evans' continued excellence.
Gilmore strategically timed a message to NFL Network, delivered on-air by reporter Mike Garafolo during the pregame show. Garafolo quoted Gilmore dramatically, emphasizing Evans' exceptional training camp performance and competitive spirit.
"Mike [Evans] started the season in peak condition," Gilmore stated, "and most people in the organization agreed he had the best [training] camp of everyone. He finished feeling better than he has in several seasons. I hope his competitive nature leads to more football. Like most fans, I love watching him play!"
(Gilmore's enthusiasm was evident through his use of exclamation points.)
Evans' desire to return to the field is clear. But what about the financial aspect? Could Evans feel slighted if the Bucs don't match the $23 million annual salary they offer Chris Godwin?
Evans' departure from Tampa Bay might seem unlikely, but fans once held similar views about legends like Jerry Rice, Julio Jones, and Davante Adams.
Joe BucsFan hopes the Bucs make the right decision promptly. Baker Mayfield expresses confidence in Evans' 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, and the Bucs can apply the franchise tag to Evans as early as February 17.
