The Bucs’ promising moves to begin free agency will receive little fanfare as the organization was dealt a crushing blow on Monday afternoon, shaking the city to its core. The news that legendary wide receiver Mike Evans is signing with the 49ers not only shook the NFL world but also everyone within the organization.

From the Glazer family to general manager Jason Licht and head coach Todd Bowles, as well as longtime teammates of Evans, plenty of emotions were shared on social media.

Statements From Bucs Organization After Mike Evans Signed With 49ers

While Mike Evans’ agent came out with an official statement expressing that the future Hall of Fame wide receiver was offered a competitive contract to stay with the Bucs, it was not enough for him to forego pursuing a new challenge and a chance at a second Super Bowl ring.

Bucs WR Mike Evans – Photo by: IMAGN Images – Jim Dedmon

The Glazer family offered the resources to keep Evans and reacted to his decision to head across the country to the 49ers on a reported three-year, $60.4 million deal.

“Saying goodbye to a legend such as Mike Evans is never easy, but today we are filled with appreciation and gratitude for all that he did during his extraordinary 12-year career as a Buccaneer. Our goal was always to ensure that Mike would play his entire career as a Buccaneer, but as we got further in the process it became clear he was looking for a new challenge.

He leaves as the most accomplished offensive player in franchise history – a six-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl champion – but it was his dedication to making a difference off the field that will define his lasting legacy in our community. We wish Mike continued success in his next chapter and thank him for all that he has done for the Buccaneers and Tampa Bay.

When the time comes, we look forward to gathering once again to honor his many accomplishments and celebrate his eventual Hall of Fame career.”

For Jason Licht, retaining his first-ever draft pick has always been special, including back in April 2024 when a behind-the-scenes-documentary was made detailing the negotiation process.

Bucs WR Mike Evans and GM Jason Licht – Photo by: Scott Reynolds/PR

Now that Evans is gone, Licht reflected in a somber manner.

My first draft pick as general manager in 2014 was a 20-year-old Mike Evans. From the moment he walked in the door, Mike made an immediate and lasting impact on our franchise.

Over the years, we watched him grow, thrive and develop into a franchise icon whose legacy will carry on well past his playing days. He has always meant a great deal to me professionally and personally, so it’s difficult to see him go elsewhere.

I wish Mike, Ashli and their family the best as they move on.

Todd Bowles is the last head coach Evans had in Tampa Bay. Across the last four seasons with Bowles in charge, the Bucs have made three playoff appearances, but had just one win in that stretch. Poor defensive and team performances down the stretch made the star wideout more vocal than ever, and his lack of involvement late in the year did not help matters.

Bucs Players Share Their Reactions To Mike Evans’ Departure

When it comes to the Bucs’ roster, it is safe to say they are heartbroken about seeing Mike Evans leave.

Safety Tykee Smith was the first player to post on X about the move.

Then came wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr.’s post. Evans and Godwin formed one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL for over half a decade, with “M1K3” being the superhero and “CG” the trusty sidekick.

Things will never be the same in Tampa Bay, with Godwin now entrusted to lead the room going forward.

Left tackle Tristan Wirfs won a Super Bowl with Evans and knows just how much he has meant to the organization. With both serving as team captains, there is now a void left in the locker room. While impossible to fill, Wirfs and other players will have to step up even more as leaders in 2026.