Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Believe Mike Evans Is Still an Elite WR in 2024

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Christian Alamodin | Last updated 3/20/24

Every loyal fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will tell you that Mike Evans is an important figure to the team.

He’s been a consistent highlight for the Buccaneers ever since he was selected with the seventh pick of the 2014 Draft. He was one of the key players that helped the Bucs win their first-ever Super Bowl title. While he threatened to leave the Bucs on multiple occasions, he’s not averse to signing a new deal or restructuring his contract if it means the Bucs have a better chance of winning the Super Bowl.

However, questions about his ability to remain productive with his advance age remain. He could not produce so much for the Bucs without causing wear and tear throughout his body.

While doubts persist about Evans’ effectiveness, the Buccaneers put their faith in their long-time WR1.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers believe Mike Evans will still be an elite wideout in 2024

Tampa Bay general manager Jason Licht made an appearance at The NFL Report to talk about Evans. He could not stop gushing over how great Evans has been for his team throughout the years.

Jason Licht on Mike Evans:

“We think he’s still in his prime. In fact, very much so… and I wouldn’t be surprised if we actually signed him to another contract extension after this one’s done, the way he’s motivated right now.” #GoBucs https://t.co/SPhk7QoPp1 pic.twitter.com/ktyRg7Ura7

— Collin Haalboom (@SI_Buccaneers) March 19, 2024

“He’s worked extremely hard,” Licht said of the Texas A&M product. “As he got up there in age, he put years, logged years in, he worked harder and harder in the offseason. He’s a freak worker right now, so we weren’t afraid of him losing anything.”

The previous season proves Licht’s claim to be true. He played all 17 regular-season games with the Buccaneers, notching 1255 receiving yards and a league-leading 13 receiving TDs.

Will Mike Evans still be effective at 30?

There’s no reason to doubt Evans’ ability to still be an elite wideout for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He’s not had a season where he caught for less than 1000 yards, and there’s no way he’ll let the streak end in Year 11.

Moreover, he will be working with a quarterback he enjoys playing with. Given the way the team is gelling with him and Baker Mayfield at the core, there’s no reason to doubt the Buccaneers’ ability to make a deep playoff push.