4 wide receivers Bucs should target to replace Mike Evans in 2024
Who could take over Mike Evans' WR1 role next year?
By Ryan Heckman
Tampa Bay Buccaneers legend Mike Evans is just three touchdowns away from tying his career-high of 14 set back in 2021. He's notched his 10th-striaght 1,000-yard season and is likely en route to another Pro Bowl and maybe an All Pro nod.
Yet, the Bucs could be waving goodbye in 2024 when his contract officially expires. After this season, Evans could be looking for a new team, and the Bucs had their chance to make sure that doesn't happen.
Evans wanted a new contract before Week 1, and he didn't even get an offer. So, enjoy the ride while it lasts, Bucs fans. Next year, the Bucs should be looking at one of these four receivers to try and ease their impending loss.
1. Keon Coleman, Florida State, 2024 NFL Draft Prospect
Let's start with a guy the Bucs could target in the latter half of the first round of next year's draft, should they finish the season strong and end with a pick close to where they're at right now (no. 19 as we speak).
Keon Coleman transferred from Michigan State to Florida State for the 2023 season and became exactly what the Seminoles needed. He's a 6-foot-4 target, like Evans, and is a touchdown-scoring machine. This season, Coleman hauled in 50 passes for 658 yards and 11 touchdowns. He doesn't have quite as much production as the earlier first-round guys, but his talent is undeniable.
Coleman could come in and literally take over Evans' role from Day 1. He's got the frame to do it. He has exceptional body control when going up and getting those 50/50 balls or the deep shoulder fades. If the Bucs have a late-first, this could be their ideal target.