The saying goes that the NFL stands for “Not For Long” when it comes to players’ careers. Whenever a player can last long in the league, it means they possess something special. When they can do it while also playing at a high level, it can often lead to them earning a special place in the memory of fans, perhaps even in Canton, Ohio.
PFF recently wrote up their selections of the best late-career NFL veterans who are still playing at a high level in the league in 2025. To no one’s surprise, Bucs wide receiver Mike Evans made the list compiled by Ryan Smith of Pro Football Focus.
He writes, “Evans made history last season, tying Jerry Rice for the most consecutive seasons topping 1,000 receiving yards (11) despite missing time with a hamstring injury. He was elite in Tampa Bay’s wild-card playoff loss to the Commanders (91.8 overall grade), dominating longtime rival Marshon Lattimore. He caught all six targets thrown his way in the matchup for 84 yards and a touchdown while also drawing a defensive pass interference penalty. Earlier this month, Evans commented that this year’s Buccaneers wide receiver room might be the best he’s been a part of in his career. He will be joined by fellow veteran standout Chris Godwin and first-round pick Emeka Egbuka out of Ohio State atop the depth chart this season.”
Evans, as he points out, is entering a potential record-breaking season with the Bucs. Not many players in league history can break a receiving record held by Jerry Rice, but the former Texas A&M Aggie has a chance to do it.
As for Evans’ comments about the receiving group, it will make life very easy for first time playcaller Josh Grizzard.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers’ Mike Evans earns new title from PFF ahead of 2025 season
Reporting by Andrew Harbaugh, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
