Bucs Gameday

Buccaneers Won't Extend Star Wide Receiver Prior To 2023 Season

The Buccaneers and their star wide receiver have been at an impasse over a contract extension that isn't likely to come prior to the season starting.

JC Allen

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and wide receiver Mike Evans have been in a contract stalemate when it comes to the veteran's future with the team. So much so that Evans went public with his clients' demands and set a deadline of September 9 to get a deal done or they would cut off negotiations during the season.

READ MORE: Former Buccaneers Quarterback Tom Brady Hints At Return To NFL

With just one day remaining it appears the Bucs have already made their decision according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

While Evans ultimately wants to finish his career with the Bucs and the organization wants him to as well, they are far apart on terms of a deal.  Though no deal will be reached by the deadline that won't stop Evans from playing out the last year of his deal. 

READ MORE: Former Buccaneer Believes Mike Evans Should Play For The Detroit Lions

"I don't know," Evans said on Thursday. "We've got a little bit of time left but we'll see. Ownership and management are going to do what they feel is best for the team and the team's future and I'm going to do what's best for me and my future. Right now, that's just playing some good ball."

The best thing to do for a "highly motivated" Evans is to focus on football and have a career year to try to earn the top-of-the-market contract he is looking for. With that being said, the Bucs will likely be inclined to let him test the free-agent waters as they have done with Carlton Davis, Jamel Dean, and Lavonte David over the past two off-seasons. 

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JC Allen
JC ALLEN

JC Allen has been covering the Bucs since 2020. He is credentialed reporter and writer for Sports Illustrated’s Bucs Gameday and is the VP of the PFWA Tampa Chapter. A transplant to the area, he offers unparalleled views and insights on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.