Evans: Mayfield influenced my decision to stay with Buccaneers
Star receiver Mike Evans revealed quarterback Baker Mayfield played a role in his decision to continue his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last offseason.
"Huge, huge impact," Evans said on "Cold As Balls" hosted by Kevin Hart. "He's a big reason (as) to why I came back. The energy that he's brought to Tampa after Tom (Brady) - that's some huge shoes to fill, huge act to follow. I think he's done an unbelievable job, winning two division championships, making it to the postseason."
The Buccaneers have won the NFC South in each of the past four seasons since winning Super Bowl LV to conclude the 2020 campaign. Mayfield has led Tampa Bay's offense since Brady retired for good after the 2022 season. The 2018 first overall pick proved to be more than just a game-manager following the future Hall of Famer's departure.
Mayfield helped the Bucs extend their postseason streak by passing for 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns to 10 interceptions in 2023. Tampa Bay then improved from 9-8 to 10-7 last season, with Mayfield posting career highs with 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns.
Evans is entering the final season of a two-year, $41-million extension he signed in March 2024. The six-time Pro Bowler tied Jerry Rice for the most consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns with 11 despite missing three games last season. The Buccaneers drafted Evans seventh overall in 2014.
The 31-year-old didn't discuss his future but is eager to see what's in store for the Bucs this fall and beyond with Mayfield under center.
"Tampa is in great hands with Baker," Evans said. "I'm sure he'll play much longer than I will."