Despite having Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua and re-signing Demarcus Robinson last week, the Los Angeles Rams were still attempting to strengthen their WR depth, and they were reportedly eyeing Mike Evans.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Evans was a free-agent target for the Los Angeles Rams before he extended his stay in Tampa Bay. If Evans hit the open market, the Los Angeles Rams would’ve willingly entered a potential bidding war against numerous rival clubs to get his signature.
Evans, of course, signed a two-year, $52 million deal with $35 million guaranteed to remain with the team that selected him with the No. 7 pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. The Super Bowl 55 champion will earn a fully guaranteed $23 million in 2024.
Why the Los Angeles Rams wanted Mike Evans
Mike Evans is one of the best wideouts in the NFL, and he has shown zero signs of slowing down despite approaching his 30s. The five-time Pro Bowler has amassed at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his 10 NFL seasons, making him a role model for consistency.
Last season, the five-time Pro Bowler recorded 79 receptions for 1,255 receiving yards and a league-high 13 touchdowns in 17 regular-season games. During the postseason, he had 11 receptions for 195 receiving yards and one touchdown in two playoff games.
Evans is the most prolific wide receiver in Tampa Bay Buccaneers history, as his 11,680 total receiving yards are 4,990 more than the next-closest Buccaneer, his teammate Chris Godwin (6,690).
While lining Evans up with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua was a scary proposition for the Los Angeles Rams’ opponents, they may have to look elsewhere, via free agency or the upcoming NFL Draft.
Other WR options for the Los Angeles Rams
If the Los Angeles Rams use the NFL Draft to add another weapon, they may have to trade up to get someone like Malik Nabers, Rome Odunze, or Brian Thomas Jr. since they only have the No. 19 pick.
On the other hand, they could decide to bring back Odell Beckham Jr. or take a look at fellow free agent Calvin Ridley.