The Age Question For Mike Evans
February 24th, 2026
So CBS rolled out a couple of receiver stats that don’t require a math degree.
Simply stated, 20 NFL pass catchers had 1,000 or more yards receiving last season, but only 2 were over age 30: Cortland Sutton and Stefon Diggs. In 2024, a total of 24 pass catchers busted the 1,000 yard mark. Only 4 were 30 or older.
Yes, receivers tend to fall off considerably at 30.
That’s less common with legends like Mike Evans, but it still happens to many greats. Future Hall of Fame receiver Tyreek Hill, for example, was atop the NFL world at 29 years old with the Dolphins in 2023 after making his fifth All-Pro team. He’s been a shell of himself since.
Evans turns 33 in August. But he’s a high-mileage 33 with 186 games played through 12 seasons.
Joe wonders how Evans’ age will be a factor in Evans’ salary expectations and the Bucs’ expectations for Evans’ production? DeSean Jackson and Antonio Brown were great NFL receivers and former Bucs who beat back Father Time, but even they were toast by age 33.
Joe suspects Evans, like most players, believes he’s in peak form. He might be. Bucs fans will remember Joey Galloway giving the Bucs three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons at age 34, 35 and 36.
The 2026 free agency dinner bell rings on Monday, March 9.