The San Francisco 49ers are not kidding about adding weapons to the offense. On the first day of actual free agency, even though it only officially starts on Wednesday, the Niners agreed to sign with potential future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans.

The money spent on Evans is mostly what the 49ers were set to pay Brandon Aiyuk. But because the team was able to void his guarantees and is set to release him, the front office reallocated the money to add a legendary receiver. It’s a three-year contract with a max value of $60.4 million.

Desire for a new opportunity

His agent Deryk Gilmore explained Evans’ decision to leave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and based on this, it makes total sense why the receiver chose the 49ers.

“Mike Evans’ decision to leave Tampa was never about money,” Gilmore said via statement to the media. “The Buccaneers were extremely aggressive in their pursuit and presented a very strong offer, demonstrating how much they value him and everything he has meant to the franchise. In the end, this decision simply came down to Mike wanting a new challenge and a fresh opportunity while he still feels he has a great deal left to give the game.”

Mike Evans is still productive

Don’t worry about Evans’ age — he can still get it done at a high level. He’s still the same downfield, physical threat we’ve all watched dominate over the last decade-plus and he’s an immediate boost to any team’s red zone offense. The best part is his game is as well-rounded as it ever is: He can run just about any route asked, he can play inside or out, and he’s a ferocious blocker that loves to get up in dudes’ faces.

The injuries are concerning, however, as Evans seems to always have some nagging issue pop up and it tends to cost him time. Last year was the first time he’s ever suffered an extensive injury, which is notable, but the nagging stuff, especially his hamstring injuries, are something to monitor. But overall, he’s still a No. 1 receiver with top-10 potential when healthy.

WR depth

The wide receiver position was an obvious need for the 49ers. After trading Deebo Samuel last offseason, losing Brandon Aiyuk, and potentially allowing Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Skyy Moore in free agency, adding new pieces there was imperative.

Right now, the room has Ricky Pearsall, Demarcus Robinson, Jordan Watkins, and Jacob Cowing. Plus, Junior Bergen, Colton Dowell, and Malik Turner are depth pieces who signed future deals with the Niners. 

Mike Evans has a new home for the first time in his NFL career, and it’s a huge development to say the least.

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