The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a loss more significant than the 24-9 final score against the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football. Star wide receiver Mike Evans exited the game in the second quarter with what the team confirmed to be a broken clavicle (collarbone) and a concussion.
The injury occurred on a deep pass attempt from quarterback Baker Mayfield, where Evans landed hard on his right shoulder and head while attempting to haul in the contested catch. He was quickly ruled out and was later carted off the field, a deeply concerning sight for the entire organization.
Timeline and Immediate Fallout
Head Coach Todd Bowles delivered the grim news in his post-game press conference, stating that Evans is expected to miss “mostly toward the end of the year.” While the team stopped short of calling it a season-ending injury, a typical timeline for a broken clavicle suggests an 8-10 week absence.
The earliest Evans could potentially return would be in early-to-mid December, which would put him on the field just in time for the final few weeks of the regular season and, hopefully, a playoff run. However, he will also need to fully clear the NFL’s concussion protocol before returning to practice.
The End of a Historic Streak: This injury all but guarantees the end of Evans’ historic NFL-record streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons to start a career, a record he currently shares with Jerry Rice.
What’s Next for the Bucs’ Offense?
Evans’ loss is a colossal blow to a Buccaneers offense already battling injuries. He had just returned from a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury, only to suffer this new, more serious setback.
* Next Man Up: The Buccaneers will rely heavily on an already-depleted receiving corps. Rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka will see a significant increase in targets, while the team awaits updates on Chris Godwin’s fibula injury. Veteran Sterling Shepard and rookie Tez Johnson will also be asked to step up immediately.
Mayfield’s Challenge: Quarterback Baker Mayfield will face his toughest challenge yet this season. Without his elite deep-threat weapon, the Buccaneers’ offense will likely lean more on the run game and shorter, high-percentage throws.
Teammate support has been strong, with Mayfield noting that Evans is “a professional” and will remain a presence in the locker room, supporting the younger players.
The Bucs are currently atop the NFC South, but their ability to weather this storm over the next two months will define their season.
The Buccaneers face the New Orleans Saints this Sunday. All eyes will be on the depth chart and how the offense attempts to reload without their future Hall of Fame receiver.
