Mike Evans Signs Rookie Deal

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA;

(Texas A&M) poses with his jersey after being selected as the number seven overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially signed Mike Evans.

The Bucs’ first round draft pick from the 2014 NFL draft has signed a four-year deal with an option for a fifth year.

The Buccaneers were in desperate need of a number two receiver to pair with Vincent Jackson, especially after the Mike Williams trade, and in Evans they found him.

Ironically, Jackson is the closest comparison in the NFL to Evans so the Bucs will have two big, powerful wideouts lining up on either side of the field for Josh McCown to throw to. Furthermore, Evans will get the chance to learn from Jackson, a player who has plenty of experience in the NFL and someone who has a very similar skillset, which should make Jackson and Evans a dynamic wideout duo.

The 6’5, 225lb wideout is physical and has fantastic hands while using his body well. He doesn’t have breakaway speed but is quick nonetheless and he even blocks well. His entire scouting report can be read here.

Evans was drafted seventh overall out of Texas A&M. Over two seasons in college, Evans had 2,499 total receiving yards on 151 catches. He also hauled in 20 career touchdowns, including 12 in 2013. His yards-per-catch however jumped from 13.5 in 2012 to 20.2 in 2013.

Evans has been slowed so far this offseason due to a hamstring injury but when he has been able to practice he’s made an impact, highlighted by this phenomenal catch during rookie minicamp.

Tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins and running back Charles Sims are the only 2014 draft picks that remain unsigned. Offensive lineman Kevin Pamphile and Kareem Edwards, as well as wide receiver Robert Herron, have already signed their rookie deals.