Rashaan Evans, Alabama: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Alabama’s Rashaan Evans is a special talent who could be a real difference maker from his linebacker position.
Rashaan Evans is a do-everything linebacker prospect who makes a constant impact on the game. He brings a physical presence to the field by delivering big hits. Evans also uses his speed to make plays from sideline to sideline.
In the run game, Evans plays downhill and doesn’t hesitate to take on blocks. He does a great job rolling his hips into the blocker and creating a jolt. This provides him with room to attack and make the tackle. Evans also has the quickness to work around blocks in space.
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He is a big hitter who approaches his target under control. Evans isn’t someone who will surrender yards after contact nor miss many tackles.
His overall value is increased thanks to his ability to hold up in coverage. Evans drops in coverage with great balance, keeps his head on a swivel and quickly closes on the ball. He also has the speed to stick with tight ends, running backs and some receivers.
Evans is a real asset against the pass which makes him an extremely valuable piece in today’s NFL. Alabama will allow him to show off his pass rush ability from time to time. He shows the burst and balance to gain the edge and get after the quarterback.
His explosiveness and awareness also makes him an excellent blitzer. He really is capable of impacting the game on multiple levels.
The one thing that could be seen as a bit of a negative is the fact he is surrounded by elite talent. Alabama’s defense has several 1st round prospects who make life easier for the rest of their teammates. In Evans case, he doesn’t have to deal with much traffic when pursing the football.
Overall, this is an excellent prospect who should be an immediate starter in the NFL. His experience and skills should allow him to fit any scheme and at either outside or inside linebacker.