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2017 NFL Draft: Texas A&M Justin Evans Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Sep 17, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers wide receiver Tony Stevens (8) runs the ball while guarded by Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers wide receiver Tony Stevens (8) runs the ball while guarded by Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports /
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Texas A&M’s Justin Evans is an explosive athlete who brings some juice to the 2017 NFL Draft safety class.

Justin Evans is a quick-twitch athlete who can cover a ton of ground in a hurry. He’s able to click and close on the football as well as attack the line of scrimmage. His explosiveness also allows him to deliver big hits on the ball carrier.

Texas A&M mainly asks Evans to man the deep part of the field, but he does move closer to the line of scrimmage from time to time. His best attribute is his quickness and ability to close on the football. However, he leaves to many plays on the field with missed tackles and poor angles.

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He struggles bring the ball carrier to the ground too often bouncing off the runner. Evans also routinely takes poor angles to the football which allows the runner to outpace him. He relies on his athleticism too much and needs to do a better job playing with discipline.

Some of the tackling issues come from the fact that he’s undersized for the position. He lacks both ideal high and bulk. However, Evans flashes the ability to deliver big hits which is due to his explosive burst.

Some of his issues as a tackler will be overlooked thanks to his ball skills. Evans is an aggressive pass defender who has the hands to pull down interceptions. His lack of height does come in to play here as well, but overall he’s a solid coverage safety.

Evans brings added value with his abilities as a kick returner. He has both the speed and vision needed to be an effective return man at the next level.

Overall, this is an excellent athlete with the potential to develop into a solid NFL safety. He needs to work on improving his tackling and overall feel for the position. Evans should be able to stick on a roster while he develops thanks to his special teams skills.

Current Draft Range: 4th Round

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