Why the 49ers were the ‘number one spot’ for Mike Evans

Mike Evans is in a new uniform for the first time in his NFL career, and the veteran wide receiver made it clear that joining the San Francisco 49ers was about one thing above all else: football.

After 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Evans chose a new chapter in the Bay Area, signing a three-year, $42.4 million deal with the 49ers earlier this week.

While leaving the organization where he built his career wasn’t easy, Evans’ decision ultimately came down to finding the right fit to chase another championship.

“It was always going to be hard to leave Tampa,” Evans said during an introductory press conference on Thursday.

“I was there 12 years. A lot of friends out there. My family has friends out there. My kids built a life there. My wife. But football-wise, this was the best spot for me.”

More on 49ers WR Mike Evans

The resume Mike Evans brings with him speaks for itself.

Prior to an injury-shortened 2025 season, the 32-year-old had recorded 11 consecutive seasons with at least 1,000 receiving yards, tying Hall of Famer Jerry Rice for the longest such streak in NFL history.

Over his 12-year career, he has averaged 10 touchdowns per season, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most consistent playmakers.

Last year was the rare exception. Evans played just eight games due to a fractured collarbone, finishing with 30 receptions for 368 yards and three touchdowns. The lost time, however, has only added motivation as he begins his next chapter.

“Absolutely,” Evans said when asked if there’s extra fuel after last season. “I always feel like I’ve got to prove something. I always feel like I can be better, and I want to show that I’m still who people believe that I am — one of the best to ever do it.”

From a football perspective, Evans said the 49ers checked every box he was looking for during free agency.

“I was looking at contenders,” Evans said. “Guys with good quarterbacks, obviously. I was looking at teams like the Buffalo Bills and other teams that needed a number-one wide receiver. But when I got on the phone with them, this became my number one spot.”

A conversation with head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch only reinforced the decision.

(Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images)

“I’ve always been a fan of Kyle,” Evans said. “He talked about how he sees me in this offense, and it just made me even happier. It was a no-brainer after I got on the phone with him.”

Evans also pointed to the team’s recent success as a major factor. Even while dealing with injuries across the roster last season, San Francisco remained a contender.

“They always compete,” Evans said. “Even with the injuries last year, I feel like they were one piece away, and I think I’m that piece.”

Evans will now pair with quarterback Brock Purdy, a player he’s been impressed with since first seeing him across the field in 2022.

“True professional. Really underrated player,” Evans said. “His first start was against my Buccaneers, and I saw right then and there that if I played with him, I could help him out a lot. I hope I can help him get to where he wants to go — be a Super Bowl champion and potentially an MVP.”

Another factor in Evans’ decision? Tight end George Kittle.

“George was the biggest salesman,” Evans said with a smile. “He sold it big time. He’s a big reason why I’m here.”

For Evans, the move represents more than just a change of scenery. It’s a chance at what he called a “second wind” in his career — and an opportunity to add his veteran presence to one of the NFL’s most talented locker rooms.

“I’m super excited every time I come to Levi’s Stadium and see the energy from the crowd,” Evans said. “The rich history of the 49ers, it just excites me.”

More 49ers & NFL content from Sactown Sports

• 49ers Land Mike Evans—But Is the Window Already Closing?
• Report: NFL explores adding game on Thanksgiving Eve
• Recapping a busy start to Raiders’ free agency
• Report: San Francisco 49ers agree to deal with star WR Mike Evans
• 49ers sign K Eddy Piñeiro to four-year extension

Upcoming NFL Offseason Schedule

• Monday, March 9 – Wednesday, March 11 – Free agent negotiation period
• Wednesday, March 11 – 2026 League Year begins & free agency opens
• Sunday, March 29 – Wednesday, April 1 – NFL Annual League Meeting
• Thursday, April 23 – Saturday, April 25 – 2026 NFL Draft

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