Imagine the final hurrah for Mike Evans.
Standing on the podium with a gold medal around his neck and the Star-Spangled Banner playing, followed by chants of USA! And while in 2028 he’ll only be 34 years old, the receiver has indicated that he’s likely to be retired by then.
The 11-year vet has only accumulated 1,000-yard seasons. The receiver has been incredible throughout his career. But during this year’s Pro Bowl, he may have revealed what the final curtain call could potentially look like.
Mic’d up, Mike Evans explained during warm-ups, as shared on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers YouTube page,
“This is good practice right here for the Olympics.”
Many players indicate their willingness to suit up for an Olympic team. However, the former product out of Texas A&M included a further detail. He mentioned that if he were retired by then, he definitely would like to represent his country in flag football.
This appears to indicate that stepping away from the NFL is on his mind. The 31-year-old would likely still have gas left in the tank. However, it appears that the exit sign has been located and remains in close proximity. This could be due to injury or the cumulative miles starting to catch up, but either way, you would give a second thought if Mike Evans were to announce his departure from the league within a couple of years.
Taking the next step, getting open, and using his frame in the non-contact version of the sport would be an excellent showcase for one of the true greats.
Looking Ahead For Mike Evans
Then, in his mid-30s, fans would hope for the best of both worlds: Evans plays during LA28 and returns for another go.
Already a Super Bowl winner, adding hardware on the international stage would be fitting either way. The wide receiver continues to show the ability to perform and produce regardless of who is under center. Furthermore, flag football is inherently less physical and has more open space. And even if an opposing defender were to be in his vicinity, it’s hard to see anyone being able to swat away anything resembling a 50/50 toward his direction.
He appeared to dismiss the idea of needing to bob and weave during the clip. Someone grabbing his flag is a secondary concern. And who can blame him? Either way, a large-chunk play or conversion is coming with him on the field. Forget gaining an extra step or two through YAC. Any QB would only need to throw a fade, knowing Mike Evans’ hands are as certain as anything in the world.
Fans and onlookers will only hope that he opts to prove it on the international stage in Los Angeles.
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