Chris Godwin Says He Learned of Mike Evans' Signing With 49ers Via Social Media

Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr. said Tuesday that he learned Mike Evans was signing with the San Francisco 49ers on social media and did not believe the reports until quarterback Baker Mayfield texted 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. '" 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 a captain.

They rank first and second in the franchise record book for receiving yards, receptions and receiving touchdowns. Evans is also the Buccaneers' all-time leading scorer. Godwin described Evans' departure as part of the game.

"Mike is -- I mean, we all know what Mike has been to this community and this organization," he said. "That's my brother and I wish him the best and his time in San Fran. " "I mean, obviously it's going to be difficult that he's not here," Godwin added.

"And I think anytime you're missing Mike, that's a tough situation. " Evans, a six-time Pro Bowler, reached 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first 11 seasons and was a key member of the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV squad in 2020. He accounted for nearly 30 percent of the team's receiving production from 2014-2025.

Godwin, who turned 30 in February, is entering Year 10 with the Buccaneers and is now the elder statesman of the wide-receiver room. Wide receiver Jalen McMillan has made jokes about Godwin's age.