Mike Evans Collarbone Injury Ends Historic Streak for Buccaneers in 2025

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield discusses wide receiver Mike Evans collarbone injury in the Week 7 loss against the Detroit Lions.

Mike Evans, wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, suffered a broken collarbone and a concussion during the team’s 24-9 loss to the Detroit Lions in Week 7. The injury is expected to sideline him for most of the remaining 2025 NFL season, according to Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles. Evans was tackled by Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin while attempting a deep pass from quarterback Baker Mayfield, resulting in a hard fall that left the receiver briefly unconscious. This injury halts Evans’ streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, tying the NFL record held by Jerry Rice.

• Mike Evans broke his collarbone and sustained a concussion in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions.
• Coach Todd Bowles confirmed Evans will miss most of the remaining season, with a potential return toward the end of the year.
• The injury likely ends Evans’ streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, a record he shared with Jerry Rice.
• Evans had just returned from a hamstring injury sustained in Week 3.
• Other Buccaneers players, including Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka, have also been sidelined with injuries this season.

Injury details and game impact

During the Monday night game against the Detroit Lions, Mike Evans was targeted four times but did not record a catch before his injury. With five minutes remaining in the first half, Evans made a leaping effort to catch a deep pass from Baker Mayfield but was tackled forcefully by Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin. The collision caused Evans’ head and shoulder to hit the ground hard. He remained motionless and appeared briefly unconscious, leading to immediate medical attention on the field.

Evans was visibly in pain and woozy when helped off the field, eventually being carted to the Buccaneers’ locker room. Despite the injury occurring during his first game back from a hamstring strain suffered in Week 3, it was clear Evans would be sidelined for an extended period. Coach Todd Bowles stated, "He'll be out mostly toward the end of the year," indicating the severity of the broken clavicle.

The conclusion of a historic streak

Mike Evans holds a unique place in NFL history as the only player to record 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first 11 seasons. He tied the legendary Jerry Rice’s record last season and had the chance to set a new all-time mark if he reached 1,000 yards again in 2025. The broken collarbone interrupts his season and almost certainly ends this historic streak.

Evans amassed 14 catches for 140 yards and one touchdown prior to this injury during the 2025 season. With his loss, Tampa Bay’s offense will have to adjust significantly as Evans has been a cornerstone of their passing attack for over a decade.

Team reaction and outlook

Teammates expressed concern and support immediately following the injury. Tight end Cade Otton emphasized Evans’ leadership and spirit, saying, "Obviously he's the leader on the team, great teammate, great person. So just want him to have a speedy recovery." Rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka recalled praying with Evans on the field and noted his strong-willed nature.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield commented on Evans' professionalism and commitment, stating, "I know Mike will be there and support the guys no matter what, and that's really just a testament to who he is."

Despite numerous injuries to key players such as Chris Godwin, Bucky Irving, and others, the Buccaneers have maintained a competitive position atop the NFC South standings. However, losing Evans is a significant setback as the team will rely more on remaining wide receivers like Egbuka, Tez Johnson, and Sterling Shepard going forward.

Mike Evans’ legacy and career highlights

Mike Evans is one of the most decorated players in Buccaneers history. As part of the franchise’s 50th anniversary celebration, he was ranked as the fourth-greatest player in team history. The 32-year-old Evans played a vital role in Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl LV championship team.

Over his career, Evans ranks 10th all-time in the NFL with 106 touchdown catches, 22nd in receiving yards with 12,824, and 34th in receptions with 850. Known for his durability and productivity, Evans has been a consistent presence in the Buccaneers’ offense, making this injury a major blow for the team and fans alike.

Moving forward without Evans

With Evans out, QB Baker Mayfield must rely heavily on the Buccaneers' other receiving options. Rookie Tez Johnson has shown promise with multiple touchdown catches, while Emeka Egbuka continues to contribute despite his own hamstring issues. The team faces the challenge of reorganizing its offensive strategy during Evans’ absence.

Coach Bowles stressed the need for resilience, saying, “We just have to regroup and come back.” The Buccaneers have already battled numerous injuries this season but have managed to sustain strong form, winning five of their first six games.

Conclusion

Mike Evans’ collarbone injury in Week 7 is a significant loss for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, ending a remarkable streak and removing one of their top offensive threats for most of the season. The team faces both challenges and opportunities as they adapt their lineup and continue their push in the competitive NFC South division. Throughout this adversity, Evans’ leadership and commitment remain a crucial part of the Buccaneers’ spirit on and off the field.

Questions and answers

Q: Mike Evans injury update 2025

A: As of 2025, Mike Evans is recovering from a collarbone injury sustained earlier in the season. He has been actively participating in team practices and is expected to return to full game action soon, pending medical clearance. The team remains optimistic about his timeline for a full recovery.

Q: Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver status

A: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' wide receiver corps in 2025 includes a mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies. Despite some injuries, including Mike Evans' recent collarbone issue, the group is showing depth and versatility. Key players are expected to contribute significantly as the season progresses.

Q: Impact of Mike Evans injury on Buccaneers

A: Mike Evans' collarbone injury has temporarily affected the Buccaneers' passing offense, reducing their deep threat capabilities. However, the team's offense has adapted by utilizing other receivers and tight ends more actively. The Buccaneers' coaching staff is managing the situation to maintain offensive efficiency while Evans recovers.

Q: Mike Evans collarbone injury details

A: Mike Evans suffered a collarbone injury early in the 2025 season during a high-impact play. The injury has required a period of rest and rehabilitation, though surgery was not necessary. Evans has been working closely with the medical team and is expected to return to play once fully healed.

Q: Buccaneers injury report week 7

A: In week 7, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' injury report includes several key players, with Mike Evans listed as week-to-week due to his collarbone injury. Other players are managing minor injuries but are expected to play. The team is focusing on recovery and maximizing depth for the upcoming games.

Key Entities

Mike Evans: Mike Evans is a wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, known for his consistent performance and multiple Pro Bowl selections. He has been a key offensive contributor since being drafted in 2014 from Texas A&M.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are an NFL team based in Tampa, Florida, and won the Super Bowl LV in 2021. They have notable players including quarterback Tom Brady and wide receiver Mike Evans.

Detroit Lions: The Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan, competing in the NFL's NFC North division. They have a history of struggles but are working on rebuilding through new draft picks and coaching changes.

Todd Bowles: Todd Bowles is the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, having taken the position in 2023 to lead the team’s defense and overall strategy. He previously served as a defensive coordinator and head coach for other NFL teams.

Baker Mayfield: Baker Mayfield is an NFL quarterback who has played for teams including the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers. Known for his strong arm and competitive nature, he is seeking to solidify his starting role in the league.

External articles

• Buccaneers WR Mike Evans to miss most of remainder ...
• Bucs' Mike Evans suffers broken collarbone in loss to Lions
• Mike Evans injury: Buccaneers WR to miss most of the ...

YouTube Video

Title: Bucs Mike Evan’s broken collarbone and concussion injury against Lions
URL: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/cv1Fb3YlS1Q