The 2025 NFL season continues tonight as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers visit the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In the lead-up to this NFC South divisional matchup, the biggest storyline has centered around the Buccaneers’ receiving corps and the availability of veteran wide receiver Mike Evans. Head coach Todd Bowles has ended all speculation already: Mike Evans will indeed start in the team’s season opener. After being listed on the injury report earlier this week with a “rest” designation, Evans returned to full participation in Friday’s practice.
Yes, Mike Evans will start for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in tonight’s primetime divisional game. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that Evans is “good to go,” putting any lingering doubts about his availability or fitness to rest. The 31-year-old wide receiver enters the 2025 season with an NFL record streak of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons. He has made steady progress throughout training camp and is now the primary target in an offense missing fellow wide receiver Chris Godwin, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury.Evans will be supported by key offensive weapons, including quarterback Baker Mayfield and rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. The Buccaneers enter the matchup as underdogs but with their top receiving threat in place, expectations are high for a competitive game.
Having cemented his reputation as one of the NFL’s most consistent and dependable receivers, Mike Evans enters the 2025 season with an expanded leadership role and heightened expectations. He remains the focal point of Tampa Bay’s offense, which will depend heavily on his skill to create separation and deliver big plays. Coaches have commended his veteran leadership and his capacity to elevate the entire offense.Tonight, Evans will be supported by a mix of young talent and emerging playmakers. The Buccaneers are confident in their offensive forces as they aim to compete in the NFC South, with Evans’ performance playing a crucial role in shaping their early-season success.
With Mike Evans confirmed to start, the Buccaneers are counting on their veteran wideout to make an impact in a challenging road environment. Tampa Bay has focused on building a more balanced offensive approach, and tonight’s game against the Falcons will serve as the first real test of their passing game.Also read: Will Michael Penix Jr. play tonight against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers? Latest injury update on the Atlanta Falcons quarterbackEvans will face an Atlanta secondary that had trouble containing receivers last season, but with his proven skill set and leadership, he’s well-positioned to make an early statement in this Week 1 clash.