The San Francisco 49ers are making a massive splash to open the 2026 NFL league year, as star wide receiver Mike Evans is expected to sign a three-year contract with the team, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The move, which Schefter heralded as a "Mike drop" on social media, brings the six-time Pro Bowler to the Bay Area after a legendary 12-season tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Evans remains one of the league's most consistent and dangerous deep threats, famously holding the NFL record for the most consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons to start a career. His arrival provides quarterback Brock Purdy with a premier red-zone target and a veteran presence in the locker room as the team looks to solidify its status as a Super Bowl favorite.
The departure of Evans marks the end of an era in Tampa Bay, where he helped lead the franchise to a victory in Super Bowl LV and became the team's all-time leader in nearly every major receiving category. For the 49ers, the signing signals an "all-in" approach for the 2026 season. The deal is expected to be formally processed as the free agency period officially commences this afternoon.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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