Mike Evans departs Buccaneers, Christian Kirk joins 49ers as receivers reshuffle

Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans left the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency to sign with the San Francisco 49ers. His exit creates a significant opening in Tampa Bay’s passing attack, giving young receiver Jalen McMillan a clearer path to increased playing time and the chance to develop into a reliable WR2 or WR3 option.

San Francisco also added another experienced receiver, Christian Kirk, on a one‑year, $3 million deal. Analysts note that Kirk, a former 80‑catch, 1,100‑yard season performer, could become a “reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy” if he stays healthy. The 49ers’ receiving corps now includes Kirk, rookie De’Zhaun Stribling, and other veterans, all competing for targets in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.