2. Bucky/The Winter Soldier Becomes Captain America

BuckyCap

Shortly after Steve Rogers’ death, Tony Stark receives a letter containing the request that Bucky become the next Captain America. As it happens, Tony – who had already tried to get Hawkeye to take over the mantle – is in The Winter’s Soldier’s sights as he blames Iron Man for his best friend’s death.

The two come to blows, but Bucky eventually agrees to wield the shield as the new Captain America, but on his own terms. Donning a new suit and armed with a gun and knife (bear in mind that Bucky has none of the enhanced strength or speed of his predecessor), he would go on to be extremely successful in the role, even leading a team of New Avengers. When Chris Evans leaves these movies behind, it would be perfect to have Sebastian Stan take over like this.