It was quite the surprise when future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans opted not to return to Tampa Bay where he had spent his entire career. Instead, he inked a three-year deal with the 49ers and during his introductory press conference, he said something that will make New England Patriots fans laugh.
Evans was explaining why he ultimately decided to sign with San Francisco, pointing out that he wanted to go to a contender that had a good quarterback. The 49ers were clearly at the top of his list since he signed there but he also said the Bills were in the running.
“So I was looking at [San Francisco], Buffalo Bills, teams that needed a No. 1 wide receiver,” Evans said. “I liked this place. This was my No. 1 spot on my own (research).”
Patriots fans can’t help laughing after Mike Evans snubs Bills
This would have been rough if Evans had chosen to sign with Buffalo, but fortunately, he didn't, and the Patriots won't have to deal with defending him twice a year.
Next to Evans joining Drake Maye and the Patriots, Evans stringing the Bills along and giving them hope, only to spurn them and then sign with the 49ers instead, is the best possible outcome here.
Buffalo has a strong need for a WR1 this offseason. The Bills traded for D.J. Moore, but he's coming off a less-than-stellar season, so they'll have work to do at wide receiver. Fortunately, Evans won't be joining Moore in Buffalo and won't be catching passes from Josh Allen.
He decided he'd rather catch passes from Brock Purdy, much to the relief and joy of Patriots fans.
Knowing that Bills fans are downright depressed about Evans' decision is precisely the kind of entertainment that Pats fans needed this offseason. It'll be even funnier if Evans goes on to dominate with the 49ers and Moore and the rest of Buffalo's weapons fizzle out. That will truly be the entertainment Patriots fans deserve.