Mike Evans explains viral Trevon Diggs jersey moment after NFL trash talk

Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Mike Evans says he didn’t recognize Trevon Diggs when he checked the back of his jersey.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans went viral after appearing to check the back of Seattle Seahawks cornerback Trevon Diggs’ jersey during a heated exchange. Evans later explained that he genuinely had not recognized Diggs at first.

The moment unfolded during Week 5 of the 2026 NFL season, when Evans confronted Diggs on the field. Video of the exchange spread across social media, with fans interpreting Evans’ glance at Diggs’ nameplate as a possible sign that he did not know who he was facing.

Mike Evans offered a straightforward explanation for the moment, saying that players can be difficult to identify while wearing helmets. “I didn’t know that was him at first, because I’ve played against him a few times, and we’ve always been cool,” Evans said, according to For The Win.

Mike Evans really didn’t recognize Trevon Diggs at first. 😂 "I honestly didn’t know it was him … I was like, ‘Who are you?’ Then I looked and made sure: ‘Oh, it’s f—in’ Diggs.’" 😂 https://t.co/rprr7g4r8a— KNBR (@KNBR) October 12, 2026

He explained that he looked at the back of Diggs’ jersey to confirm his identity before realizing who it was. “I honestly didn’t know it was him, because in the helmet, it’s hard to tell sometimes,” Evans said. The exchange became a viral NFL moment partly because the gesture could have looked like an intentional slight, even though Evans said it was simply a case of mistaken identity.

The clip was shared by NFL-focused accounts, including Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, drawing attention from football fans. Evans, a veteran receiver, and Diggs, a cornerback, have faced each other in previous matchups. Mike Evans’ explanation suggested that the confrontation was not intended as a personal insult.