Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht and head coach Todd Bowles acknowledged Tuesday that star wide receiver Mike Evans has 'earned the right' to explore free agency. The 13-year veteran, who holds the franchise record for receiving yards, will be an unrestricted free agent in March after expressing his desire to play another season.

Evans' agent Deryk Gilmore informed the Bucs last week that his client wants to test the market after 12 seasons in Tampa Bay. Unlike 2024, when Evans signed a new contract before free agency began, he will listen to offers from other teams this year. Licht emphasized the mutual respect between the organization and Evans, noting they'd 'love to have Mike back' and ultimately want him to retire as a Buccaneer.

The Bucs face a pivotal offseason after missing the playoffs for the first time since their Super Bowl LV victory. With offensive coordinator Zac Robinson taking over play-calling duties and changes to the strength and conditioning staff, Tampa Bay hopes to rebound from a season plagued by injuries. While the team has young receivers like Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, and Jalen McMillan, Licht and Bowles understand Evans' desire to explore his options after a decorated career.