Mike Evans Is Switching To No. 5 With The 49ers

Most NFL quarterbacks and wide receivers do their best to continue wearing the same jersey number across teams for the sake of brand recognition, and they'll usually shell out some money to ensure they get it. But that's not exactly an option for newly-minted San Francisco 49ers wide receiver and perennial Pro Bowler Mike Evans.

For all 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers plus his time at Texas A&M, Evans has worn the No. 13. Unfortunately for him, that number is currently worn by 49ers starting QB Brock Purdy, who is not going to give it up.

As a result, Evans will be wearing a new number in 2026. Appearing on Real Ones with his teammate Fred Warner, Evans said he will be wearing the No. 5 jersey for the 49ers this season. To that end, Fanatics is already selling a 49ers jersey with that number on it.

ProFootballTalk noted that the number is currently worn by wide receiver DeMarcus Robinson, who is under contract with the team for the 2026 season.

Evans' 13th Season

Evans has built one of the most consistent and productive careers of any wide receiver in NFL history, all with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Drafted seventh overall in 2014 out of Texas A&M, Evans made an immediate impact with a 1,000-yard rookie season and went on to achieve a historic streak of consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to begin his career-an unprecedented mark that underscored his durability and elite production. Known for his size, physicality, and ability to win contested catches, Evans became the focal point of Tampa Bay's passing attack for years.

His career reached its peak during the Buccaneers' championship run in the 2020 season, when Evans played a key role alongside quarterback Tom Brady in winning Super Bowl LV. Over the years, Evans has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and set numerous franchise records, including becoming Tampa Bay's all-time leader in receiving yards and touchdowns.

Despite changes in coaching staffs and offensive systems, he has remained remarkably consistent, cementing his legacy as one of the premier wide receivers of his generation.

But at the end of the 2025 season, the Buccaneers decided that it was time to prioritize their assets elsewhere and Evans quickly joined forces with the 49ers.

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This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 5:15 PM.