Mike Evans Signs with 49ers
Mike Evans has signed with the San Francisco 49ers, a move that could shake up fantasy draft boards this summer [https://www.fantasyalarm.com/articles/nfl/nfl-offseason/nfl-breaking-news-mike-evans-signs-with-the-san-francisco-49ers/187475]. The 2026 free agent running back class is thinning, with Breece Hall franchise tagged and Javonte Williams signing early [https://fsan.com/top-rbs-in-2026-free-agency/]. What other free agent moves have happened recently?
Mike Evans's three-year contract with the 49ers has a base value of $42.4 million, with $16.3 million guaranteed. Incentives could push the total value to $60.4 million. His average annual salary is roughly $14.1 million. Evans spent his entire 12-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before signing with San Francisco. He ranks second among active players in receiving yards (13,052) and touchdowns (108). Only six-time Pro Bowler Jerry Rice has more seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards. The 49ers had roughly $42.9 million in available cap space for the 2026 season. The team typically likes to keep $10-20 million in reserve for in-season moves. Restructuring Trent Williams' contract could free up an additional $15 million in cap space. The 49ers finished the 2025 season with a 12-5 record. They defeated the Eagles in the Wild Card round but lost to the Seahawks. With Evans joining the team, the 49ers may shift their draft strategy. The team can now address other needs, such as edge rusher or offensive line, in the first round. Potential WR draft targets for the 49ers include Omar Cooper Jr. and Malachi Fields. Evans wore jersey number 13 throughout his college and professional career. Brock Purdy also wears number 13, presenting a potential jersey number conflict. Purdy chose the number in honor of Dan Marino. The Buccaneers reportedly wanted Evans to finish his career in Tampa Bay. Evans' agent stated that he desired a "new challenge and a fresh opportunity". He is betting on Brock Purdy and Kyle Shanahan. The current 49ers WR depth chart includes Ricky Pearsall and Demarcus Robinson. Jauan Jennings is a free agent. Brandon Aiyuk is expected to be released.
