Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans sustained a hamstring injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s 29-27 victory over the New York Jets, raising concerns about his availability for Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Evans limped to the sideline after an incomplete pass with 6:22 remaining, visibly frustrated as he tossed his helmet aside and knocked over a cooler on his way to the locker room. He did not return to the game and is scheduled for an MRI on Monday.
Coach Optimistic Despite History
Bucs head coach Todd Bowles offered a cautiously optimistic update after the game. “So far it’s a hamstring tweak. I have not gone in to see the final details yet,” Bowles said.
Evans, 32, has a history of hamstring issues, having missed games during both the 2019 and 2024 seasons. Last year, a similar injury sidelined him for three contests, though he returned late in the season to accumulate 669 receiving yards over seven games, finishing with 1,004 yards and 11 touchdowns in 14 games.
Mike Evans’ Early 2025 Performance
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Through three games this season, Evans has 14 receptions for 140 yards and one touchdown, including a one-yard score in the second quarter against the Jets. That touchdown marked the 106th of his career, placing him ninth in NFL history. The six-time Pro Bowler remains the only receiver in league history to start his career with 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and is tied with Jerry Rice for the most consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns at any point in a career. An extended absence could put that streak at risk.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
Despite Evans’ injury, the Bucs saw contributions from rookie wideout Emeka Egbuka, who played through groin and hip issues to record a team-high six catches for 85 yards. Tampa Bay may also have a boost with Pro Bowl receiver Chris Godwin, who has been sidelined since dislocating his ankle last season. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Godwin has a “strong chance” to return for Week 4. Additionally, left tackle Tristan Wirfs is reportedly expected back in the lineup, offering further stability to the Bucs’ offense.
Looking Ahead To Week 4 Vs. Eagles
Tampa Bay opens Week 4 at home against the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET. After struggling offensively in the second half against the Jets, the Bucs will hope to put together a more consistent four-quarter performance. With Evans’ status uncertain but Godwin and Wirfs potentially returning, the Bucs’ receiving corps could get a timely boost for a challenging matchup.