Getty Images Mike Evans
The New England Patriots find themselves in a precarious position as they navigate the offseason, facing significant gaps across their offensive roster. With no established quarterback and a shortage of reliable offensive tackles, coupled with the impending free agency of critical playmakers, including their top receiver and tight ends, the Patriots face a daunting task in rebuilding their offensive arsenal.
Amidst this uncertainty, adding veteran wide receiver Mike Evans could provide a much-needed boost to the Patriots’ offensive firepower. As a Super Bowl champion with a proven track record of consistency and excellence, Evans brings a wealth of experience and talent to the table. His veteran pedigree makes him an ideal primary target for a young quarterback and a valuable mentor to a budding receiver room.
Mike Evans 2021 highlight mix made by me. No other WR i’d rather have, Keep balling G 💯✊🏽 @MikeEvans13_
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NFL insiders have tabbed the Patriots as an ideal landing spot for the All-Pro WR, and now the oddsmakers also list the Patriots as one of the favorites to land Tom Brady’s former target.
Odds via SportsLine oddsmakers: Which will be Mike Evans’ Week 1 team in 2024?
- Buccaneers +150
- Texans +300
- Jets +600
- Bears +700
- Patriots +900
- Panthers +1000
- Titans +1100
- Ravens +1200
- Cardinals +1300
- Falcons +1400
- Chiefs +1500
- Colts +2000
The Logistics Behind a Mike Evans Signing
Despite the Patriots’ challenging roster situation, they possess ample cap space, ranking second in the league with $69.5 million available. This financial flexibility positions them to pursue impactful free agents like Evans and address critical needs on their roster.
Evans’ current contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers expires on March 11, opening the door for negotiations with interested teams. The 30-year-old receiver is coming off another impressive season, tallying 1,225 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, marking his 10th consecutive 1,000-yard season. His stature as the Bucs’ all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns underscores his value as a premier talent in the league.
Most seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards:
Jerry Rice – 14
Mike Evans – 10
Randy Moss – 10
Larry Fitzgerald – 9
Terrell Owens – 9
Jimmy Smith – 9
Tim Brown – 9
While the Buccaneers can utilize the franchise tag on Evans, there remains uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation and coaching changes. This presents an opportunity for teams like the Patriots to pursue Evans in free agency, offering him a chance to thrive in a new environment and contribute to their offensive resurgence.
The Mike Evans Sweepstakes
According to CBS Sports, Mike Evans ranks as the second-highest free agent receiver potentially available on the market, trailing behind Cincinnati Bengals’ Tee Higgins. However, reports suggest that Higgins will likely receive the franchise tag from the Bengals, indicating that he may not be available in free agency.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are anticipated to utilize their franchise tag on All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr.
The Bucs, Texans, Jets, and Bears are all listed as higher favorites to land Evans than the Patriots. However, New England presents an attractive destination for Evans to consider, with the Patriots’ substantial cap resources and the allure of playing for a storied franchise turning the page on a new era. Couple that with a fanbase desperate for a star WR, and Evans could find an excellent home in New England. Patriots defender Matthew Judon believes Mike Evans would be an excellent fit for New England.
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Bleacher Report’s NFL Insider Jordan Schultz also sees the Patriots as a realistic landing spot for Evans.
“Evans has become one of the most anticipated players, not just receivers, to hit free agency. So I devised a list of five teams, that to me, make the most sense in regards to potential Mike Evans landing spots. You’ve got the Carolina Panthers, the Kansas City Chiefs, the Detroit Lions, the New York Jets, and the New England Patriots,” Schultz said in a video.
Ultimately, Evans’ decision will hinge on various factors, including financial considerations, team competitiveness, and fit within the offensive scheme. As the offseason unfolds, the Patriots will undoubtedly be active in pursuing impactful acquisitions, with Evans emerging as a compelling target to fortify their offensive arsenal for the upcoming season.