Buccaneers' Chris Godwin Reacts to Mike Evans Signing With 49ers in Free Agency

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr. said Tuesday that he first learned of Mike Evans signing with the San Francisco 49ers through social media. Godwin stated he did not accept the report until quarterback Baker Mayfield sent him a "sad face" emoji.

"Honestly, I didn't believe it," Godwin said. "I mean, there's a bunch of stuff on the internet that you can't really believe, a lot of AI stuff. '" The comments marked Godwin's first public remarks since Evans left the Buccaneers in free agency, ESPN reported.

Evans and Godwin played together for nine seasons in Tampa. Evans served as a mentor to Godwin, the 2017 third-round draft pick, beginning in Evans' first year as team captain. The pair rank first and second in Buccaneers franchise history for receiving yards, receptions, and receiving touchdowns.

Evans is also the team's all-time leading scorer. "I think it's part of the game, unfortunately," Godwin said of Evans' departure. "Mike is -- I mean, we all know what Mike has been to this community and this organization.

That's my brother and I wish him the best and his time in San Fran. " Godwin added that the absence would be noticeable. "I mean, obviously it's going to be difficult that he's not here. And I think anytime you're missing Mike, that's a tough situation.

Evans, a six-time Pro Bowler, recorded at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first 11 seasons and played a central role on the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV championship team in 2020.