San Francisco 49ers sign veteran Mike Evans to boost 2026 receiving corps

The San Francisco 49ers announced the signing of veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, a 33‑year‑old former Tampa Bay player, to a three‑year contract reported to be worth up to $42 million. The deal is intended to provide consistency and veteran leadership after two seasons of injuries and turnover among the team's receivers. Evans recorded only 30 catches for 368 yards in 2025 following a clavicle injury that ended his streak of 1,000‑yard seasons.

The team projects Evans will serve as the No. 2 option behind recent first‑round pick Ricky Pearsall and mentor younger talents such as Jacob Cowing, Jordan Watkins and De’Zhaun Stribling, while also supporting star players Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle.

Analysts also noted several other 49ers who could see increased roles in 2026, including running back Jordan James, cornerbacks Upton Stout and Deommodore Lenoir, and defensive end Mykel Williams, underscoring the squad’s focus on depth on both sides of the ball.