Mike Evans just dropped another massive hint about his future with Buccaneers

Many wondered if using a first-round pick on budding rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka was a reflection of veteran Chris Godwin's health (or lack thereof). But as time has progressed, questions have shifted toward longtime franchise cornerstone Mike Evans, who poured gasoline on the speculation ahead of Week 2.

Evans, a 32-year-old Galveston, Texas native, addressed the media on Thursday ahead of Tampa Bay's upcoming road contest against the Houston Texans. He was asked about this interconference clash possibly being the last NFL game in his home state. By the sound of it, that's ostensibly well within the range of outcomes, if not likely.

There was no beating around the bush; Evans, who publicly hinted at retirement several times this past offseason, didn't mince words. He acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future with the Buccaneers head-on, suggesting the end is nearer than fans see in their nightmares. Gulp.

Mike Evans doesn't shy away from Week 2 vs. Texans possibly being his last Texas homecoming

"This might be my last time [playing in Texas]," Evans told reporters (h/t Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times). "I got a lot of people coming to this game for that sole reason."

For whatever it's worth, Evans highlighted that this could be his final outing in the Lone Star State even if he played "three-four [more]" years. However, theoretically speaking, the Bucs can face the Dallas Cowboys in any season via the playoffs. With that in mind, hearing him consciously gather friends/family in Houston is ominously telling.

2025 marks the final season of Evans' current contract, though no extension is imminent. Tampa Bay has reportedly expressed its desire to ensure he's a "Buc for life," and the feeling has evidently been mutual. Yet, the lack of commitment indicates that the future Hall of Fame wideout's career is a year-to-year proposition.

Houston's NRG Stadium is less than an hour away from Galveston. He went to Texas A&M before being selected by the Bucs No. 7 overall in 2014. Tampa Bay has become a second home, though his roots lie with the place that raised him.

Whenever Evans hangs up the cleats, he will go down as the greatest pass-catcher in Tampa Bay history and an all-time great. The six-time Pro Bowler leads the Bucs in every major receiving category -- by a wide margin. His dozen campaigns (and counting) with the organization will undoubtedly be memorialized in the Ring of Honor in due course.