Three Realistic Mike Evans Trade Destinations
Mike Evans is one of the very best wide receivers in the NFL. However, there’s a chance that he stars on a team that’s not the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His agents set a deadline of seven days from now to get a deal done. Now, Bucs management must either pay him what he deserves or potentially trade him. A trade would probably be a worst-case scenario for both sides, as Evans expressed an interest in completing his career in Tampa Bay.
As the only man to rack up 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first nine NFL seasons, there is no doubt many teams would be interested in acquiring him. Here are three teams that make sense to acquire the former Texas A&M standout.
Team No. 1: New England Patriots
Does Bill Belichick have one more trick up his sleeve? The Patriots are in need of a No. 1 receiver. Evans has the mentality and ability to thrive in Foxboro. Does that mean there’s some smoke or fire here?
We already know their offense is sporting a new look this season. One of the reasons for that was signing Ezekiel Elliott. We also know they were DeAndre Hopkins‘ second favorite landing spot behind the Titans. Whether it’s Mac Jones or the recently claimed Matt Corral under center, they need more people to throw it to. Having Evans as a top target and reshuffling the depth chart will make every quarterback’s job easier.
According to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, Evans is comparing his value to the Cooper Kupp extension of three years and $80.1 million. While Belichick is not known for breaking the bank for contracts, a player like Evans looks like an exception to that rule. Having a bonafide game-breaker in the passing game will help their chances greatly in a bloodbath of an AFC East.
Team No. 2: Detroit Lions
The year is 2023 and the NFC North kinda looks like the Lions’ division to lose. Dan Campbell has built a strong foundation but this is the year where you can’t lose momentum. One question mark is the ability of their pass-catchers. Amon-Ra St. Brown is a stud. However, there’s no one else to really compliment him. Jameson Williams is suspended for six games. The Denzel Mims experiment failed. At the time of writing, it would be Josh Reynolds or Marvin Jones lining up as their WR2.
Clearly, a move like this is a no-brainer. Not only does adding him get the best out of Jared Goff under center, but it also gives Amon-Ra an incredible mentor to learn from as his career takes flight. The Lions should not be afraid to part ways with some draft capital or cap space here. They have the chance to leapfrog the Vikings as definitive favorites for the division if they play their cards right.
Team No. 3: New York Giants
Is this overkill? Do the Giants have enough? As a fan, I’m not sure. Joe Schoen did an amazing job this summer to build up both the skill positions and the offensive line. Daniel Jones will certainly have some fun this season, especially with Darren Waller. However, you could argue that their best receiver is either Isaiah Hodgins or Parris Campbell. Don’t exactly light the world on fire, right?
With Evans, the expectations for the Giants probably go a lot higher. Could they make the NFC Championship game? With the core of last year’s squad still in place, a piece like Evans has the chance to elevate them to elite status. Remember, Big Blue is still looking for a hands-down No. 1 receiver after trading Odell Beckham five years ago. While they may not have to, I’m sure they would be willing to make some calls if he were actually available.
There are many realistic trade destinations for Mike Evans. A Pro Bowl receiver rarely hurts more than helps for most teams. While the focus is definitely on getting an extension hammered out, don’t be surprised to see these three teams and more involved in the rumor mill.
