Washington Football Team: Four Day 3 RB targets to consider
Chris Evans, Michigan
A senior out of Michigan, Evans had a bizarre career arc in Ann Arbor. Evans burst on the scene in 2016, racking up 614 yards in his freshman season on seven yards per carry. His usage went up the following season, which saw Evans carry the ball 135 times.
However, Evans seemed to peak at that point. His usage dropped to just 81 attempts in 2018. Although he continued to average five yards per carry, the number of plays he took from scrimmage dropped substantially.
After missing the 2019 season due to a suspension stemming from an academic issue, Evans played in six games last fall. He touched the ball 25 times, accumulating 160 total scrimmage yards. A fifth-year senior with falling usage, Evans has tumbled down draft boards after being a top recruit in his high school class.
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While his stats might cause some teams to shy away, Evans brings other elements that can add depth to a running back room. While at Michigan, Evans proved to be a capable pass-catcher, averaging 14.5 yards per reception in 2016. Even as his production dipped, Evans still provided a punch in the passing game by averaging 9.7 yards per reception in 2020.
Physically, Evans checks the boxes. He is 5-foot-11 and 211 pounds, ideal for a running back of his skillset. He also has experience lining up at the slot, making him a dynamic change of pace back. His ability in the passing game makes him a great potential third-down running back.
At age 23 and with a lackluster close to his collegiate career, Evans will likely fall to the last couple of rounds. Ranked at the 202nd best prospect by CBS, Washington can easily take a flyer on him late to bring a high-ceiling dynamic back into the running back room.