4 realistic replacements for Mike Evans if he leaves Buccaneers
- Free agency figures to be limited
- Draft prospects are probably the best option
- In the end, Evans should stick around
By Ryan Heckman
Troy Franklin, Oregon
Let's move on to the Bucs' first-round pick, sitting at no. 26 overall. One of the possibilities for the Bucs there is Oregon wide receiver Troy Franklin. The 6-foot-3 speedster is one of the faster wide recivers in this class.
Having the ability to line up outside and run a variety of routes, Franklin could come right in and take over Evans' role. Franklin is superb when it comes to gaining separation. There aren't many defensive backs that end up sticking with him on most routes.
And, this is why he wins. Franklin only weighs 187 pounds, so he isn't as big or strong as Evans. He can't out-man another defensive back at the point of the catch. But, he gets open. He will run right past them, find an opening and make the play. He doesn't need the high-level strength with his skillset.
Speaking of not needing too much strength, Franklin can also win after the catch purely based on athleticism. His speed and cutting ability allow for him to make sudden moves after the catch, working his way downfield and moving the chains.
Just take his 2023 stat line and do what you will with it: 81 receptions for 1,383 yards (17.1 average) and 14 touchdowns.