Mike Evans Cleared to Play Against New York Jets After Injury

Wide receiver Mike Evans, recognized as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has been cleared to play in the upcoming game against the New York Jets, reports indicate. This news comes after Evans suffered a moderate hamstring strain in Week 7, leading to a three-game absence, marking one of the longest of his career.

Evans, known for his impressive plays on the field, expressed his eagerness to return. «It hurt to see your team out there fighting in really tough, close games that we could have won,» Evans told ESPN. «I wish I could [have been] out there to help them. I’m excited for this week.» His return was considered during the team’s Week 10 matchup, but it was decided that he would rest instead and use the bye week to focus on his conditioning.

Todd Bowles, the head coach for the Buccaneers, stated, «As long as he’s healthy and fresh,» Evans will play. However, Bowles also mentioned the possibility of pulling him out if necessary, especially considering the absence of the team’s top three receivers, including Evans. «If he needs to be in there, he’ll be in there, but we’ll get him out when we have to,» Bowles added.

As the Bucs have been on a four-game losing streak, Bowles is hopeful for a turnaround similar to last season, where the team won five of their last six games to claim a playoff spot. Evans mentioned his confidence in his current condition, saying, «I feel really good. Like I said, I feel better than I did going into [the] Ravens game.»

Furthermore, Evans dismissed concerns regarding the conditions at MetLife Stadium, known for its history with noncontact injuries. «I like it. I like it,» Evans stated regarding the field. «I prefer grass over turf but whatever field it is, we’ve got to play on it.»

On a personal note, Evans has openly shared his ambition of tying Jerry Rice’s NFL-record of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. Already setting a record for the most 1,000-yard receiving seasons at the start of a career with ten, Evans needs to average 95 receiving yards per game to match Rice’s achievement. «It’s there. Obviously, it’s going to be tough,» Evans commented, «I’m just thinking about winning — playing winning ball.»