The news of Evans’ intention to continue playing confirms what his teammate, quarterback Baker Mayfield, said in late January: Evans still has “more in the tank.” Whether the Buccaneers have enough money in the bank to convince Evans to finish his career in the only place he’s ever known in the NFL, however, remains to be seen.
Evans will face $13 million in cap space in 2026 due to void years placed on his contract, which expires at the end of the 2025 league year. He averaged $20.5 million a year on that deal — a figure that was outside the top 20 in 2025 — but given his current prospects, he’s likely to attract a lower figure on a short-term deal in March.
Tampa Bay has $23.9 million in cap space through 2026, enough room to fit Evans into the equation if it can also retain some of its top incoming free agents before the start of the new league year. At that point, it becomes a matter of priorities: Find a way to keep a legend for another year (and keep Mayfield happy by keeping his favorite target), or redirect resources toward the strength of the 53-man roster.
If the latter proves to be more important, Evans has already made it clear that he is willing to play elsewhere, a position that is also an important position ahead of the impending contract negotiations. He still has value, especially for a contender looking for a big pass rusher with great hands, ball skills, body control and experience.
We’ll see if this value matches the Buccaneers, or if Evans could wear a new uniform in 2026.