49ers-Free Agency Football
FILE - Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans runs during an NFL football game between the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Dec. 21, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C.
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NFL free agency spending has reshaped the early pecking order, with a few teams gaining real momentum and others taking hits. On Monday, big moves included the Panthers adding Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd to build an elite defense. The 49ers added Mike Evans and extra line help. The Patriots kept spending to upgrade key spots. The Jets brought Geno Smith back and loaded up on defense. The Rams strengthened their secondary. The Buccaneers slipped after losing Evans and defensive starters. The Eagles and Jaguars also dropped back after losing major pieces.
The decision to leave Tampa Bay wasn’t easy for Mike Evans after he and his family built strong relationships with the Buccaneers and the community over 12 seasons. Picking a new spot once he decided to leave was far easier for the star receiver. Evans dove into possible destinations before the start of free agency and made his final decision quickly after a video call with San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. After making more than $150 million in his career, Evans turned down a more lucrative offer from the Bucs, according to his agent, to sign with San Francisco.
