Buccaneers’ Mike Evans Eyes Record Held by Jerry Rice

The four-time Pro Bowler seeks to eclipse a mark held by the Hall of Fame wide receiver.

Mike Evans has made a name for himself as one of the NFL’s most productive and consistent wide receivers.

Evans, who has played his entire nine-year career with the Buccaneers, has registered at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of those seasons. As he enters his 10th pro season, the Tampa Bay wideout seeks to continue that streak to move one step closer to Jerry’s Rice record of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving campaigns.

“I think about. It’s right there, so I’m gonna definitely try to go get that,” Evans told KPRC-TV’s Ari Alexander at his youth football camp in Houston this week. “I hope I can pass the great Jerry Rice and his record. Obviously, nobody will pass his records probably, like ever, total. But that 1,000-yard streak record would be cool to have.”

Talked to #Buccaneers star WR Mike Evans this week at his football camp.

Evans is coming off his 9th straight 1,000 yard season, an NFL Record to start a career.

The record for consecutive 1,000 yard receiving seasons is 11 by Jerry Rice, and Evans says he’s coming for it. pic.twitter.com/DRoArlKi92

— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) June 27, 2023

Rice missed the 1,000-yard threshold by a mere 73 yards during his rookie season in 1985. After that campaign, Rice accomplished the milestone from ’86 through ’96. He later topped the 1,000-yard mark three more times for his 14 total 1,000-yard receiving seasons are also an NFL record.

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Although Evans stated that Rice’s total number of seasons as a 1,000-yard receiver might be difficult to surpass, the four-time Pro Bowler clearly has his eyes on Rice’s record for consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. 

Evans believes he has a legitimate shot at that record if he can stay healthy. But his biggest goal is to ensure the franchise is winning games.

“I should get 1,000 yards if I’m healthy. Every year,” Evans said. “… I want to be one of the tops in the league. I want to be winning games. That’s what I care about.”

Evans finished the ’22 season with 77 receptions for 1,124 yards and six touchdowns. He boasts 10,425 career receiving yards.