NFL

The decision to leave Tampa Bay wasn’t easy after Evans and his family built strong relationships with the community over 12 seasons. Once past that, he says, picking a new spot was far easier.

The Senate voted 35-0 on an amended bill that was unanimously accepted by the House earlier in the week. It allows head coaches to spend up to $15,000 on their players a year.

The measure was named after Teddy Bridgwater, who played with the Bucs last season after he was suspended from Miami Northwestern High because he paid for meals and rides for his players.

After spending the past 12 years solidifying a Hall of Fame resume in Tampa Bay, receiver Mike Evans is headed to San Francisco on a reported three-year, $60.4 million contract.

Teddy Bridgewater's suspension from his voluntary position at Miami Northwestern High inspired the legislation, which would permit prep coaches to financially help kids on their teams.

While Todd Bowles will remain, he gutted his staff. The firings include offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard, special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey and defensive line coach Charlie Strong.

Bowles has three years remaining on his contract and is operating as if he’ll return for a fifth season. He will meet with the Glazer family on Wednesday for a typical end-of-season conversation.

The Bucs needed a win or tie by New Orleans at Atlanta to win the NFC South. Instead, the Falcons' 19-17 victory means the Panthers are the division champs, eliminating Tampa Bay after a late-season collapse.

Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals as the Bucs avoided elimination in a 16-14 win at rain-soaked Raymond James Stadium. They now need a win or tie by the Saints against the Falcons on Sunday to secure a playoff spot.

Keith Kunzig, whose fanaticism has been recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, hung up his horn a few years ago. He discussed his place in Bucs' lore on "Florida Matters: Live and Local."

The team announced that Deckerhoff, 80, will retire after this season — which could end Saturday unless the Bucs earn a playoff spot.

The Bucs have been wretched down the stretch, but Saturday's showdown with the Panthers was still expected to be winner-take-all. Then the Falcons threw a wrench into Tampa Bay's narrow playoff hopes.