The San Francisco 49ers officially introduced Mike Evans on Thursday after signing the six-time Pro Bowler to a three-year deal, adding one of the NFL's most accomplished wide receivers to the team's offense.

Evans arrived in San Francisco following a decorated 12-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he became the franchise's all-time leader in receptions (866), receiving yards (13,052), and touchdown catches (108). While leaving Tampa Bay was not easy, Evans said several factors convinced him the 49ers were the right destination for the next chapter of his career.

"It was always going to be hard to leave Tampa. I was there 12 years," Evans said. "A lot of friends out there. My kids built a life there, my wife… but football-wise, this was the best spot for me for sure."

Evans said he had long admired the way the 49ers operate and was particularly drawn to the offensive system led by head coach Kyle Shanahan.

"I've always appreciated how the Niners went about their business on the football field," Evans said. "And I've always loved the way Kyle calls the games."

During the free agency process, Evans evaluated several teams but prioritized organizations with championship aspirations and strong quarterback play. After speaking with Shanahan and president of football operations and general manager John Lynch, the decision became clear. Plus, his newest teammate, TE George Kittle, sealed the deal.

"I did my research on a lot of teams that I was looking at... Here, the Buffalo Bills, teams that needed a number one wide receiver. I like this place, this is my number one spot on my own. And then I talked to John and Kyle, and it solidified it for me. I've always been a fan and he just talked about how he sees me in this offense, and it just made me even happier. It was a no-brainer, really.

"But George was the biggest salesman.
George sold it big time, and he's a big reason why I'm here, just because the type of player and teammate that he is."

Evans believes the 49ers have the foundation to compete for a championship and is eager to contribute to that pursuit.

"A team that always competes, even with their injuries last year," Evans said. "I felt like they were one piece away, and I think that I'm that piece. I look forward to coming here and improving that."

... You can see the product on the field, the way that they play game. No matter who's in the game, guys stepping up. You can tell it's the culture in the locker room. That's the only way that you get to that type of success.
So, I look forward to adding to that with my veteran presence and leadership."

Another factor that excited Evans about joining San Francisco was the atmosphere he has experienced while playing in Northern California.

"I'm super excited," Evans said. "Every time I come to Levi's® Stadium and I see how the crowd is, I see the energy that they bring and the rich history of the San Francisco 49ers, it just excites me."

For Evans, it was those elements, the coaching philosophy, a championship-caliber roster, locker room culture, and the energy of the Faithful that made the decision clear.

"I feel like it's given me a second wind in my career," Evans said. "That's why I chose to come here."