Thursday marked the first time Bucs wide receiver Mike Evans has spoken with the media since the contract ultimatum made by his agent that called for a new deal by Saturday. Evans gave his thoughts about the statement, if he would return to the Bucs and whether this year is truly his finale with the city he has called home since being drafted seventh overall back in 2014.

Mike Evans Wants To Be “Solidified And Secure” With New Deal

For all he has done on the field with the Bucs during his career, Mike Evans is at the point of wanting to be compensated with one last payday. While his agent came out and noted general manager Jason Licht and assistant general manager Mike Greenberg’s professionalism, ultimately the Brinks truck is driven by the Glazer family. It is up to them whether it is backed up for Evans, who has the greatest offensive resume of any Buccaneer – ever.

“Yeah, my agent set the deadline,” Evans said talking about the announcement shaking up the Bucs fan base. “I’m sure y’all read the statement. Obviously, we’ve been working with them for over a year now trying to get something done.

Bucs WR Mike Evans – Photo by: USA Today

“Any player in my position would want to be solidified and secure. But if a deal is done or not, either way I’m going to be okay and I’m looking forward to having a great season this year.”

Regardless of whether a deal is struck, Evans is still grateful for being a Buc this season and making it to year 10 of a career nearing Hall of Fame-level consideration, if it has not already.

“I’m excited,” Evans added. “I’m blessed to be in this position. A lot of people dream of making it to Year 10. I’m happy to be here. I feel great. I look forward to a great season with the Bucs this year.”

Is There A Way Mike Evans Would Return If No Deal Is Done?

In many ways, this season is a crucial mark on the map for outlining how the Bucs go about planning the organization’s future. If the team surprises and makes the playoffs, head coach Todd Bowles’ job is secure for the foreseeable future, and quarterback Baker Mayfield could stay in Tampa Bay and keep baking.

If there is a notable decline and they fail to make the playoffs and win six games, the Bucs may decide to overhaul the roster around younger guys like left tackle Tristan Wirfs and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. with an eye toward the future.

That leaves Mike Evans in the middle, and when asked if he would return without a deal being done now, he realizes the only thing he can do is put up the numbers to make his argument even stronger.

Bucs WR Mike Evans – Photo by: USA Today

“Ownership and management are going to do what they feel is best for the team and the team’s future, and I’m going to do what’s best for me and my future,” Evans said. “And right now that’s just playing some good ball.”

Besides the trio of Mayfield, Wirfs, and Winfield Jr., another contract the Bucs have to consider is that of Evans’ counterpart – Chris Godwin. Three years younger than Evans, Godwin is set to cash in on a new deal after next season. That means potentially paying two receivers north of $20 million. Is committing that much money to receivers without a potential long-term answer at quarterback feasible? Evans still thinks so.

“Absolutely. I think other teams have done something similar. But this is my last time talking about contract situations. I’m looking forward to having a great season this year, and whatever happens, happens. I’ll be alright.”

Mike Evans Is Still Happy To Be With The Bucs, New Offense

Regardless of the outcome, and if this is truly his last year with the only franchise he’s called home, Mike Evans is not hurt if he is nearing the end with the Bucs.

Bucs WRs Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, QB Baker Mayfield and OC Dave Canales – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

“No. Like I said, I’m blessed, man. I’ve been blessed to play this game for a really long time. [I have] made a lot of plays, made a lot of money…it’s not even about that. I’m just happy to be in the position I’m in.”

And right now, with the dawn of the year on the horizon, Evans shifted focus to his excitement of the year ahead – with all of the new parts surrounding him on offense.

“[There are] a lot of doubters, so we’re looking forward to shocking a lot of people this year, especially this first week.”

Leading the charge on offense is offensive coordinator Dave Canales and quarterback Baker Mayfield.

“I love Dave and his energy; I love the whole coaching staff,” Evans said.

Asked about Mayfield, Evans is a fan of his competitiveness.

“A lot of energy, a lot of moxie, great ball placement. And [he’s] super-competitive, so I love that about a quarterback.”

While much remains to be seen on if a new deal is struck to keep Mike Evans a Buc for life, right now he has his sights on what he has built a reputation for doing – balling out.