Mike Evans is bringing a fresh look to the Bay Area. After a legendary 12-year run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he donned the No. 13 jersey, the star wide receiver is switching digits for his new chapter with the San Francisco 49ers.
Evans confirmed on teammate Fred Warner's "Real Ones" podcast that he will wear No. 5 for the NFC West contenders. The change was almost a necessity, as 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has a firm hold on the No. 13 he's worn since entering the league.
This means last year's No. 5, wideout DeMarcus Robinson, will be ceding the number. While Robinson remains on the roster, such jersey swaps between teammates often involve a friendly negotiation, with the incoming star typically offering incentives for the change.
For fans eager to rep the new look, Evans' No. 5 Niners jersey is already in the pipeline. Retailers like Fanatics have listings ready, though they note shipments will wait for the official team confirmation. It's a small number with big implications, signaling a new era for one of the game's most consistent receivers.
