Mike Evans Injury Update: Buccaneers Star Suffers Broken Collarbone vs. Lions

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans suffered a broken collarbone during Sunday’s 24-9 loss to the Detroit Lions, leaving fans and teammates fearing a lengthy absence. The 32-year-old veteran was seen lying motionless on the turf in the second quarter before being helped off the field.

The latest Mike Evans injury update confirms that the Pro Bowl wideout will miss significant time, according to head coach Todd Bowles. Evans had only just returned from a hamstring injury earlier this season and was limited to just 13 snaps before the new setback occurred.

Mike Evans Faces Lengthy Absence After Broken Collarbone

Evans was targeted four times by quarterback Baker Mayfield against the Lions but failed to record a catch before exiting the game. His injury occurred with the Buccaneers trailing 14-0 in the second quarter. Medical staff quickly rushed to his aid, and he was escorted to the locker room for further evaluation.

Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed after the game that Evans had fractured his collarbone and is expected to be sidelined “mostly toward the end of the year.” Bowles added, “We’ll see what happens,” hinting that the timeline for Evans’ recovery could extend deep into the regular season.

The star receiver has had a difficult season with injuries. He previously suffered a hamstring issue in Week 3 against the New York Jets, forcing him to miss three games. His return against Detroit was meant to mark a turning point, but instead, it ended prematurely and dramatically.

The Buccaneers’ receiving corps has been plagued by injuries this year. Chris Godwin is currently out with a fibula injury, rookie Emeka Egbuka is battling a hamstring problem, and Jalen McMillan has yet to make his season debut after suffering a neck injury in the preseason. The growing list of absentees poses a major challenge for Tampa Bay as the team tries to maintain its NFC North lead.

How Evans’ Absence Impacts the Buccaneers’ Season

Evans’ injury is a significant blow to Tampa Bay’s offensive game plan. As the franchise’s all-time leader in receiving yards and a consistent deep threat, his absence will force the team to rely more heavily on younger, less experienced receivers. The timing is particularly challenging, with the Buccaneers preparing for a divisional clash against the New Orleans Saints, who are 1-6 but eager to exploit a weakened Tampa Bay lineup.

Former Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski expressed optimism that the team could still compete despite the setbacks, but admitted that losing Evans again will make their playoff push much tougher. “They have the talent to win games, but they’ll need guys to step up quickly,” he said.

As the Buccaneers continue to lead the NFC North, their ability to adapt offensively without Evans could determine their postseason fate. Fans will be watching closely for further updates on his recovery timeline, but all signs suggest that Tampa Bay may have to plan for the remainder of the regular season without its star wideout.

The latest Mike Evans injury update underscores a major hurdle for Tampa Bay’s offense. With multiple receivers sidelined, the team’s depth will be tested as they fight to stay atop the division.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Mike Evans injury update?

Evans suffered a broken collarbone during the Buccaneers’ loss to the Lions and is expected to miss most of the rest of the season.

Q2: How long will Mike Evans be out?

Head coach Todd Bowles said Evans will likely be sidelined until late in the season, with no exact return date confirmed yet.

Q3: What other injuries have affected the Buccaneers?

Chris Godwin is out with a fibula injury, Jalen McMillan has a neck issue, and Emeka Egbuka is recovering from a hamstring injury.

Q4: How does Evans’ injury impact the Buccaneers’ playoff hopes?

His absence weakens their offense and puts more pressure on younger receivers, potentially affecting their NFC North title chances.

Q5: Who will replace Mike Evans as the primary target?

Chris Godwin, once healthy, and rookie Emeka Egbuka are expected to take on bigger roles, along with depth players from the roster.