How long is Mike Evans out? Hamstring injury timeline, return date, latest updates for Buccaneers WR

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are off to a 5-1 start to the season, and ahead of a huge "Monday Night Football" matchup against the Detroit Lions, they are getting back star wide receiver Mike Evans.

Evans, who missed the past three games with a hamstring injury, will be active in Week 7 against the Lions.

In Week 3, Tampa Bay moved to 3-0 in 2025 with a thrilling last-second victory over the New York Jets, but the team lost Evans in the process. The 32-year-old was visibly frustrated as he exited the field, heightening concerns about the seriousness of the injury.

Now, No. 13 is officially back for a Super Bowl contender in Tampa Bay.

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What is Mike Evans' injury?

Evans sustained a hamstring injury in Tampa Bay's Week 3 win over New York. He appeared to tweak his hamstring as he planted his foot while running a route during the game's fourth quarter.

Here is the play where Evans was injured:

This is the play where Mike Evans suffered his hamstring injury. Top of the screen. pic.twitter.com/IJeZiXQty8

Evans let up as soon as he appeared to feel discomfort, exited to the locker room and was ruled out for the game shortly after.

MORE: The latest injury updates on Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb

How long is Mike Evans out?

Evans missed Weeks 4 through Week 6, where the Buccaneers went 2-1, but ahead of a heavyweight clash on "Monday Night Football," the wide receiver has been cleared. He has 14 receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown on the season.

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Buccaneers WR depth chart

Evans has been a franchise stalwart, but their WR corps was strengthened with the addition of early Offensive Rookie of the Year favorite Emeka Egbuka. Tampa Bay also hopes to get WR Chris Godwin back from injury soon.

Second-year WR Jalen McMillan began the season on injured reserve with a severe neck injury sustained in the preseason and is still on the mend.

Here's a look at Tampa Bay's hierarchy of pass-catchers.

Buccaneers schedule 2025

The Buccaneers sit in first place in the NFC South and are at the top of the entire NFC.

Tampa Bay's bye week comes in Week 9.