Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is aiming high for the upcoming 2023 NFL season, despite having a new quarterback under center. Already holding the unique distinction of achieving 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first nine seasons, a feat unmatched by any other player in NFL history, Evans is now focused on surpassing a legendary record held by Jerry Rice.
Evans has his sights set on Rice's impressive streak of 11 consecutive seasons with 1,000 or more receiving yards, a record that spanned from 1986 to 1996. In a recent interview with KPRC 2 Houston, Evans acknowledged the magnitude of the record while expressing his determination to pursue it. He understands the difficulty of surpassing Rice's overall accomplishments but believes the consecutive 1,000-yard streak is within reach.
While personal accolades are important, Evans emphasized his primary focus remains on team success and winning games. He believes achieving 1,000 yards should be a yearly accomplishment if he remains healthy, but his true desire lies in contributing to the team's overall performance.
This upcoming season marks a significant change for Evans, as it will be his first without Tom Brady as his quarterback since 2019, following Brady's retirement. The competition for the starting quarterback position is between Baker Mayfield, the 2018 first-overall draft pick, and Kyle Trask, a 2021 second-round pick. Mayfield joined the Buccaneers on a one-year contract after spending the 2022 season with both the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams.
During his introductory press conference, Mayfield acknowledged the impossibility of replacing Tom Brady, recognizing Brady's status as the greatest of all time. Mayfield emphasized his intention to be himself and bring his unique style to the Buccaneers' offense. The Buccaneers' training camp is scheduled to begin on July 30th.
