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The end of Mike Evans’ NFL career could come in the next few years, but his playing days may not be over.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers star said he’d “most likely” be retired by 2028, and if he is, he’ll suit up for the United States Olympic flag football team.
“This is good practice for me,” Evans told reporters Saturday regarding the flag football at the Pro Bowl Games, via Tampa Free Press’ Rock Riley (h/t NFL.com’s Bobby Kownack). “The Olympics, most likely I’ll be retired by 2028, how many years is that? Three years, I don’t know. But if I am retired, I would definitely like to play in the Olympics.”
After the Paris Olympics came to a close in August, the focus quickly shifted to Los Angeles 2028, which will feature flag football for the first time in Olympic history. Naturally, the addition of flag football had fans urging NFL players to get involved.
Evans isn’t the only player to express interest in flag football at the Olympics, as Miami Dolphins star receiver Tyreek Hill called for NFL players to team up to “bring one home” in 2028.
Having a speedy receiver like Hill alongside a massive target such as Evans would be quite the spectacle, but only time will tell if they decide to pursue gold in a few years.
It’s also unclear whether Evans will be retired or still playing by 2028. The veteran will be nearly 35 by the time the Olympics roll around, but he’s still going strong right now. He’s coming off his 11th straight season with at least 1,000 receiving yards, tying legendary receiver Jerry Rice’s record. He barely reached the mark this year, recording 1,004 yards and 11 touchdowns, but he also missed a handful of games.
Before Evans thinks about winning gold, he’ll continue chasing his second Super Bowl victory. The Bucs are coming off a fifth straight postseason appearance but couldn’t get past the divisional round while dealing with a handful of injuries. Tampa Bay will look to return a healthy roster next season and get closer to its championship goal
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