The 49ers made one of the biggest splashes of NFL free agency by signing six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year contract worth $60.4 million.
The 6-foot-5 pass catcher, who posted 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before an injury derailed his 2025 NFL season, is expected to provide some much-needed playmaking ability for a 49ers team that lost Jauan Jennings to the Minnesota Vikings and actively is looking to trade Brandon Aiyuk.
While those around San Francisco are thrilled with the addition, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield made it clear to the media on Friday that Evans’ departure stings.
“There’s no way to sugarcoat it,” Mayfield told reporters. “It’s disappointing not having him back. Just the caliber of player he is, he’s a Hall of Famer, deserved to be a Buc for life. Things happen, but luckily, him and I have a great relationship, we’ll still be friends for life, and I’ll be cheering him on except when we play them, if it comes down to it.”
Video: Baker Mayfield, speaking at his young football camp, says Mike Evans leaving was disappointing but it’s a chance for other receivers to step up this season. pic.twitter.com/4QLIpdysMF
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) June 5, 2026
Although Evans will be donning new threads for the first time in his career, he did tell the media on Wednesday that he expects to have a similar role and play style in San Francisco.
“You’ve got to win in tight situations down there in the red zone,” Evans said. “And I have the leaping ability, I have the awareness, and a lot of reps at doing it. And I love getting in that red area and adding a different dynamic to this team.”
So, what was a huge loss for Mayfield and the Bucs could end up being a monumental addition for Brock Purdy and the 49ers as they look to make a title push.
Download and follow the 49ers Talk Podcast