NFL Rumors: Mike Evans Plans to Become Free Agent; WR Not Ruling Out Bucs Return

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans plans to enter free agency, per The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

According to Russini, the veteran is still in discussions with Tampa Bay about re-signing but wants to weigh his options and hear from different teams before he makes a decision.

A 10-year player, this will be Evans' first time entering free agency. He has spent every season of his career with the Bucs and has always received an extension before entering free agency. Evans is coming off a five-year, $82.5 million contract.

Evans, 30, has proved he's worthy of what could be his last big payday, and Bucs general manager Jason Licht knows he will have to give him that to keep him in Tampa Bay, per ESPN's Jenna Laine.

"He's an unprecedented player. We want him to be a Buc for life. We're working towards that," Licht said Tuesday at the NFL combine. "Obviously it takes two sides. I know he wants to be a Buc. We'll probably have to strain a little bit but we're working towards that right now."

Last season, Evans notched his 10th 1,000+ receiving yard season in as many years, picking up 1,255 yards and 13 touchdowns, which was tied for the most in the league.

The Bucs are coming off a 9-8 season that saw them reach the playoffs and get a first-round win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Tampa Bay is looking for similar success next season, and getting Evans back in the mix would be crucial.