Mike Evans is one of the most consistent receivers in NFL history. The Texas A&M product is tied with Jerry Rice for the most 1,000-yard seasons in a career, setting an NFL record by hitting that mark in 11 straight seasons to begin his career.<\/p>\n
Going into Week 3 of the 2025 season, he is set to be the New York Jets\u2019 biggest problem, and his 0-2 opponents are well prepared.<\/p>\n
When Gang Green travels to Tampa Bay to take on the Buccaneers, the organization knows it will have to contend with one of the most high-powered offenses in the league. With Baker Mayfield leading the way and Evans as the group\u2019s heartbeat, few offenses have been as successful as Tampa Bay\u2019s since the start of last season.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s why the Jets are focused on shutting Evans down as they seek their first win of the season.<\/p>\n
Jets prepared for the Mike Evans challenge<\/p>\n
Even at 32 years old, Evans remains a formidable No. 1 receiver. He caught for 1,004 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 14 games last year, and he leads the Bucs in receptions (10) and receiving yards (107) through the first two games of 2025 despite competition from rookie Emeka Egbuka.<\/p>\n
Evans, though, is still looking for his first touchdown of 2025. He could have a good chance to do it against the Jets, who have allowed the third-most points per game (32.0) so far this season.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: Jets defense suffers from Cover 1 predictability, no game-plan specificity<\/a><\/p>\n The Jets and All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner<\/a> are doing everything in their power to prevent that from happening. Gardner, in particular, is more than excited for the matchup.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s been in the league for a minute. I used to watch him back then,\u201d Gardner said of Evans on Thursday. \u201cIt\u2019s a great opportunity for me to be able to go against somebody like him.\u201d<\/p>\n Gardner has traveled against top receivers this season more than he did in his first three years with the Jets. In Week 1, he shadowed Pittsburgh\u2019s DK Metcalf for most of the afternoon. Going against a top receiving threat in Evans may prompt the Jets to use that strategy again.<\/p>\n At the very least, defensive coordinator Steve Wilks knows what a matchup like this can do for his own All-Pro player. <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s going to be a tough task (covering Evans). I know our guys are going to be up for it. I know Sauce is super excited about playing in this game, as well as B-Stephens.\u201d Wilks said.<\/p>\n Evans\u2019 impact goes far beyond what defensive players are expecting. Now in his 12th NFL season, other receivers around the league have looked up to the veteran for his professionalism and consistency.<\/p>\n