Mike Evans: “I’m chasing not just Bucs records but NFL records.”

Mike Evans made NFL history twice while Tom Brady was under the helm and even surpassed Mike Alstott for the most touchdowns by a non-quarterback in team history; and more. But sadly, all good things must come to an end, as the GOAT hung up his cleats for good. Unless he comes back in Favre-fashion.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers senior writer and editor Scott Smith caught up with Mike Evans and spoke about his time with Brady, records, and the future.

Mike Evans caught the last touchdown pass that Brady will ever throw in the NFL unless, of course, he has a change of heart. Evans certainly did not want it to be the last pass he would catch from the GOAT.

Both Evans and Brady were voted to the Pro Bowl, so there was a chance for Evans to catch more passes from his former teammate, but according to Scott Smith, Brady had a shoulder issue and wasn’t going to play. 

“I didn’t want it to be his last touchdown pass,” said Evans. “That was a great ball by him.”

Evans has had one heck of an NFL career during his 8 seasons in the league. He set the NFL record for the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons since entering into the league with 7 and then re-set it with 8, both with Tom Brady at the helm. But he isn’t finished yet. Mike Evans is not just chasing Buccaneer records; he is chasing NFL records. 

“There’s a lot of things for me to accomplish still,” said Evans. “I said since I was a young player, I’m chasing not just Bucs records but NFL records. I’m trying to get another ring. It’s a great feeling to be a Super Bowl champion. That’s what we work for every year, and that’s what I’m going to continue to do.”

One NFL record that is easily within his grasp is the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in NFL history. Jerry Rice owns the record with 10, followed by Tim Brown with 9. Mike Evans is tied with Marvin Harrison, Cris Carter, and Torry Holt with 8; on this most exclusive list. 

The veteran wide receiver out of Texas A&M has been on one hell of a wild ride during his first 6 seasons in the NFL, having a coaching carousel and quarterback carousel to deal with. However, he has been able to solidify himself as not only one of the best receivers the Buccaneers have ever had but one of the best in the NFL. His time with Brady will certainly have an impact on the former first-round draft pick. Although Brady helped an already talented team by drawing talent to the Buccaneers and helping to complete a championship team, this team isn’t done yet, and Mike Evans still has plenty left to add to his incredible Hall of Fame resume.

“It’s been absolutely special,” he said. “The first six years of my career, there were a lot of lowlights. These past two years have been the best, absolutely the best. I’m very appreciative and thankful that I was able to experience that and play with guys like Tom and Gronk. It was special. But we still have a very talented roster, one of the most talented rosters in the league even though Tom retired. We’ve got to pick up where he left off. In this game, you’ve just got to build your resume as best as possible, and when it’s all said and done, they’ll have the debate of whether you should be in or not.” 

There should be little to no debate on whether or not Mike Evans belongs in the Canton, Ohio.

You can check out Scott Smith’s full article: Pro Bowl WR Mike Evans: I Have a Lot More to Accomplish