Evans Extends Stay, Winfield Jr. Tagged by Bucs for 2024

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made two pivotal moves this offseason, securing the services of prolific wide receiver Mike Evans and standout safety Antoine Winfield Jr. for the 2024 campaign.

Mike Evans, a five-time Pro Bowler, inked a two-year contract extension with the Buccaneers, ensuring his continued presence in Tampa Bay. The Texas A&M product has etched his name in the record books, becoming the first player in NFL history to amass 60 or more receptions in each of his first 10 career seasons.

Evans’ dominance on the gridiron is undeniable. He has surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark in every season of his illustrious career, tying Randy Moss for the second-most 1,000-yard receiving seasons in league history with 10. Moreover, Evans ranks tied for fifth in touchdown receptions (94) and sixth in receiving yards (11,680) through a player’s first 10 seasons.

The 2023 campaign witnessed Evans’ continued excellence, as he finished tied for first in touchdown receptions (13) and ranked ninth in receiving yards (1,255) on 79 receptions. His ability to command double teams and generate separation has been a hallmark of his success, utilizing his 6'5" frame and lethal release package to consistently beat defensive backs.

“He is the epitome of what you want in a draft pick, and he set the standard,” remarked General Manager Jason Licht. “Every year, you want the first-round pick to set the standard for the class and [he did] for me.”

While Evans’ re-signing solidified the Buccaneers’ offensive firepower, the franchise also made a decisive move to retain their defensive stalwart, Antoine Winfield Jr., by placing the franchise tag on the versatile safety.

Winfield Jr. enjoyed a historic 2023 season, earning first-team Associated Press All-Pro honors for his dominant performance. He amassed career highs across multiple statistical categories, including 122 tackles, 12 passes defensed, 8 quarterback hits, 6.0 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions.

Remarkably, Winfield Jr. became the first player since data became available in 1999 to finish a season with 100-plus tackles and at least three interceptions, forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, and sacks in a single campaign.

Among defensive backs in 2023, Winfield Jr. led the league in sacks (6.0), forced fumbles (6), fumble recoveries (4), and finished tied for third in takeaways (7) and third in quarterback hits (8). His impact on the field was undeniable, forcing offenses to adjust their protections and wreaking havoc with his instinctual play and range.

With Evans and Winfield Jr. locked in for the 2024 season, the Buccaneers have reinforced their offensive and defensive prowess, positioning themselves for another deep playoff run and a potential Super Bowl championship.