League’s Top-Scoring Wide Receiver Wants the Lions to Make a “Splash” Signing.
In 2023, the Detroit Lions boasted one of the NFL’s top passing offenses, combining the talents of explosive receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown with emerging rookie tight end Sam LaPorta. This offensive prowess propelled the team close to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance.
Despite potential financial limitations in the upcoming offseason, an insider recommended that the Lions make a significant move by acquiring Mike Evans, a highly reliable wide receiver from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Christian Booher of SI.com highlighted Evans as one of the Lions’ top three targets, acknowledging the potential expense but emphasizing his value.
Booher emphasized that Evans’ consistent performance over his career, including surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in each of his ten seasons, makes him an exceptional addition. In the previous season, Evans recorded 79 receptions, 1,255 yards, and led the league with 14 touchdowns.
Pairing Evans with St. Brown could significantly strengthen the Lions’ offensive capabilities, giving them a formidable advantage against opposing defenses. Booher suggested that Evans’ ability to serve as an outside vertical threat perfectly complements St. Brown’s prowess as an All-Pro slot receiver.
While Evans has expressed a desire to remain with Tampa Bay, contract negotiations have stalled, making his free agency increasingly likely. However, the projected annual contract of around $23 million may pose a challenge for the Lions.
Booher proposed an alternative option if the Lions find Evans’ expected salary prohibitive: targeting Gabe Davis from the Buffalo Bills, who could be a more financially feasible choice.
Despite the Lions’ interest, the Buccaneers are reportedly making efforts to retain Evans, with reports indicating his desire to retire with the team. However, negotiations between Evans and the Buccaneers have hit an impasse, with both sides far from reaching an agreement.
There were concerns within Tampa ownership about investing heavily in Evans, particularly after facing significant cap constraints during their Super Bowl run with Tom Brady. However, with a resurgence led by Baker Mayfield, plans for a rebuild in Tampa may have shifted.
