Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mike Evans: 'I preferred Jameis Winston over Marcus Mariota'

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter | 05 May 2015

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans reveals that he is relishing the prospect of playing with new quarterback Jameis Winston.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans has admitted that he preferred Jameis Winston over Marcus Mariota in the NFL Draft.

The Buccaneers selected Winston over Mariota with the first overall pick in the selection process, and Evans has revealed that he is relishing the prospect of playing with the 21-year-old after watching his displays in the college game.

"Out of [Winston] and Mariota, I like Winston more," Evans told reporters. "He doesn't run as much. With that being said, he will come in and do well for us. I am excited to have him. He can play ball. He can sit in the pocket and deliver the ball. That is more opportunities for a receiver.

"But Mariota can play ball as well. I did my time with a mobile quarterback. It was fun. In this league, it is tough to scramble. I think Jameis will be fine. He is a great player. I watched him throughout his college career. He can hang in that pocket and deliver the ball."

Evans recorded 68 receptions for 1,051 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in his rookie season.