2018 Raiders Draft Profile: MLB Rashaan Evans

2018 Raiders Draft Profile

Name: Rashaan Evans

Position: MLB

School: Alabama

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 236 pounds

Stats

Tackling

At times, Evans’ tackling veers from thudding to a capture and drag style. Although many find that disturbing, he changes his style for a reason. In traffic, Evans drops his hips and drives toward the ballcarrier. With his head up and shoulders square, he delivers a stopping blow. While in coverage, Evans secures the tackle around the waist and uses his lower half to drive down. Despite the change in technique, Evans gives up little to no yards after contact.

Strength

Evans gets the most out of his frame with thudding hands and core strength. Like a spring, Evans stands up blockers, gains the edge while rushing.

Speed/Agility/Block Shedding

Overall, Evans’ speed and agility could immediately help an NFL team. More importantly, his ability to flip his hips (turn and run) in coverage will turn heads. Additionally, Evans stepped in at edge rusher. When he battled blockers, Evans goes to the bag of tricks to defeat block. For example, Evans can spot a tackle leaning inside, giving him a free lane to the outside. Evans will either use a spin or rip to free himself. As trite as the term is, Evans plays sideline to sideline. With little wasted motion, he flows into the play. Consequently, Evans sniffs out screens with body control, and the nimbleness to sift through the trash.

During blitzing, Evans uses instinct to take over. He offers few false steps while rushing, preferring to commit to getting upfield. In addition, he breaks down well enough to not overpursue, vacating his lane.

Raiders Fit

When Paul Guenther’s history in Cincinnati and his own as a college linebacker, he has an affinity for playmakers. Evans fits the Guenther scheme, due to his ability to make wide-ranging plays. With more of an emphasis to get home with four, Evans’ agility and burst provides a variety of coverage abilities. With NaVorro Bowman turning 30 in May, the Raiders need to think of the future at middle linebacker. Bowman remains a strong run defender, but lacks the speed to cover. Right now, Evans projects as a Day 2 selection.