Buccaneers reveal true feelings on Mike Evans' free agency move

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to do something they haven't done in over a decade, and that is to prepare for an NFL season without Mike Evans.

The star receiver signed a three-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers in free agency, as Evans will now be on a new NFL team for the first time in his career.

Yes, it will take a bit of getting used to, but we imagine it won't take long to be at peace with it.

But for the Bucs, what are their feelings on Evans not being a one-franchise player after swapping Tampa for San Francisco?

General manager Jason Licht holds no ill will towards his former receiver.

“We had a verbal agreement that he could be here as long as he wants,” Licht said via Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. “Im happy for Mike and happy he found a place he wants to be.”

More: Buccaneers reveal eyebrow-raising detail of potential Mike Evans contract

Buccaneers face big 2026

After the capitulation in the second half of last season, the Buccaneers swung the axe on several coaches, and now, the franchise has a new look to it, both on and off the field.

Evans will be a big miss, but the Buccaneers are well-equipped to deal with the loss, given they have ample quality receivers already in their ranks.

Baker Mayfield has to bounce back, so does the defense after the Bucs missed the playoffs after being 5-1 early in the season.

The winds of change have blown through the organization, and now, 2026 is looming large for a franchise that desperately wants to get back to the postseason.

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