The connections have been easy to make for nearly a year and a half.
Mike Evans, the Galveston, Texas, native and likely future NFL Hall-of-Fame wide receiver was always going to hit free agency. The connections with the Houston Texans were inherently obvious between their ample cap space, rookie quarterback and need for offensive talent infusion if they want to compete in a top-heavy AFC conference.
Despite all that, though, it doesn’t sound as though the two are destined to be together. The Texans won’t pursue Evans this offseason, according to KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson.
INDIANAPOLIS — Multiple #NFL sources anticipate an outstanding market for #Buccaneers star wide receiver Mike Evans.
And the #Texans, who have good, young wide receivers Nico Collins and Tank Dell, are not expected to pursue Evans during free agency @KPRC2 #NFLCombine2024— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 2, 2024
Financial concerns with the contract Evans seeks, trust in young receivers Nico Collins and Tank Dell and the team’s desire to work out an extension with Collins prior to the start of the 2024 campaign weighed into this decision, per Wilson.
This may be disappointing for fans who are hoping to see the Texas A&M legend join a Houston squad that will have Super Bowl aspirations in 2024. However, it very likely could be in the best interest of the team to spend those resources on defense and other positions as they’re planning.
Collins and Dell looked like legitimately capable starting NFL wideouts in 2023 with C.J. Stroud under center. Head coach DeMeco Ryans’ defense, despite bright spots, showed a far more desperate need for additional help.
It remains to be seen if the Texans’ lack of interest in Evans is indicative of their plans for the position as a whole this offseason just with regards to Evans. The legal tampering period for agents of free agents to speak with teams begins March 11, while free agency officially begins on March 13.