Darrynton L.A. Evans Bio
Darrynton L.A. Evans is an American professional football running back and return specialist who currently plays for the Buffalo Bills. He played college football for the Appalachian State Mountaineers and was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the third round of the 93rd overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft. Evans had a standout collegiate career where he earned Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2019 and amassed over 2,000 all-purpose yards with 24 total touchdowns that season. Throughout his NFL career spanning multiple teams, he has contributed as a change-of-pace back and return specialist while developing his craft at the professional level.
Early Life and Background
Darrynton L.A. Evans was born on July 9, 1998, in Daytona Beach, Florida. He attended New Smyrna Beach High School in New Smyrna, Florida, where he developed into a versatile playmaker on offense and special teams. His high school career laid the foundation for his future as a dynamic running back with the ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
After graduating from high school, Evans committed to Appalachian State University to continue his football career at the collegiate level. His decision to join the Mountaineers proved instrumental in shaping his development as a player and setting the stage for his professional aspirations.
Path to American Football
Evans arrived at Appalachian State as a true freshman in 2016 and made an immediate impact. He played in 12 games, rushing for 217 yards on 48 carries while also serving as a key kick returner with 563 return yards and a touchdown on 25 returns. His versatility was evident from the start of his college career.
Unfortunately, Evans missed the entire 2017 season due to injury and was forced to redshirt. He returned in 2018 ready to prove himself, entering the season as a backup to Jalin Moore. When Moore suffered a season-ending injury, Evans stepped into the starting role and rushed for 1,187 yards on 179 carries with seven touchdowns. He also contributed 490 kick return yards with a touchdown. His standout performance earned him MVP honors in the 2018 Sun Belt Conference Football Championship Game after accumulating 218 total yards.
As a full-time starter in 2019, Evans reached his full potential and dominated the conference. He earned Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors after rushing for 1,480 yards while accumulating 2,064 all-purpose yards and 24 total touchdowns. He was named MVP of both the 2019 Sun Belt Conference Football Championship Game and the 2019 New Orleans Bowl. Following his exceptional junior season, Evans made the decision to forgo his senior year and enter the 2020 NFL Draft.
Darrynton L.A. Evans Career
Tennessee Titans (2020–2021)
Evans was selected by the Tennessee Titans with the 93rd overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, fulfilling his dream of playing professional football. As a rookie, his season was interrupted by injury when he was placed on injured reserve on October 15, 2020, with a hamstring injury. He was activated on December 7, 2020, and saw limited action behind starter Derrick Henry.
In Week 15 against the Detroit Lions, Evans recorded his first career touchdown with a receiving score during the 46–25 victory, contributing 57 yards from scrimmage. He finished his rookie season playing in five games with 14 rushes for 54 yards, two receptions for 27 yards, one receiving touchdown, and nine kickoff returns for 206 yards. He also had one carry in the Titans’ playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens. In 2021, Evans was placed on injured reserve on September 2 and activated on October 23, but was placed back on injured reserve on October 29, ending his season. The Titans waived Evans on March 10, 2022.
Chicago Bears (First Stint, 2022)
On March 11, 2022, Evans was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Bears. He was waived during final roster cuts on August 30, 2022, but was signed to the practice squad the following day. He was promoted to the active roster on November 27, 2022, continuing his development in the Bears’ offensive system.
Indianapolis Colts (2023)
On March 31, 2023, Evans signed with the Indianapolis Colts. However, his tenure was brief as he was waived on May 2, 2023, before the regular season began.
Buffalo Bills (First Stint, 2023)
Evans joined the Buffalo Bills on July 25, 2023, looking to contribute as a depth running back and special teams player. He was released on August 29, 2023, during roster cuts.
Miami Dolphins (First Stint, 2023)
On August 31, 2023, Evans signed with the Miami Dolphins practice squad. He spent time developing with Miami before moving on.
Chicago Bears (Second Stint, 2023)
On October 9, 2023, Evans was signed by the Chicago Bears off the Dolphins’ practice squad. He was waived on November 16, 2023, but his journey continued with another team.
Miami Dolphins (Second Stint, 2023)
On November 21, 2023, Evans returned to the Dolphins and joined their practice squad. He was elevated to the active roster on November 23, 2023, for a game. After the season ended, he became a free agent when his practice squad contract expired.
Buffalo Bills (Second Stint, 2024)
On January 23, 2024, Evans signed a reserve/future contract with the Buffalo Bills, signaling their confidence in his abilities. He was placed on injured reserve on August 27, 2024, during training camp. He was released on October 29, 2024.
Chicago Bears (Third Stint, 2024)
Evans returned to the Chicago Bears on November 6, 2024, signing with their practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster on December 21, 2024, giving him an opportunity to contribute at the end of the season.
Buffalo Bills (Third Stint, 2025–Present)
On March 13, 2025, Evans signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Bills, returning to the organization for his third stint with the team. The Bills valued his experience and versatility as they built their roster for the upcoming season. He was placed on injured reserve during training camp in August 2025 and later released, creating an opportunity for him to catch on with another team during the regular season.
Driving Style and Strengths
Evans displays excellent elusiveness and lateral quickness when operating in space, making him a threat to break big plays when he gets into the open field. His experience as a kick returner in college translates to valuable special teams contributions at the professional level. At 5-foot-10 and 203 pounds, he possesses adequate size for the running back position while maintaining the speed and agility needed to create mismatches against defenses.
Notable Events and Milestones
Evans’ collegiate career peaked in 2019 when he earned Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors and was named MVP of both the Sun Belt Championship Game and the New Orleans Bowl. His 2,064 all-purpose yards and 24 total touchdowns showcased his ability to dominate at the conference level and prepared him for the challenges of professional football.
Darrynton L.A. Evans Career Wins
Throughout his football career, Evans has accumulated notable achievements at both the collegiate and professional levels. His production during the 2019 season remains the highlight of his career, while his NFL journey has seen him contribute across multiple organizations.
Appalachian State Highlights
During his collegiate career at Appalachian State from 2016 to 2019, Evans established himself as one of the most productive players in Sun Belt Conference history. He earned Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2019 and was a two-time First-team All-Sun Belt selection in 2018 and 2019. His standout 2019 season included 1,480 rushing yards, 2,064 all-purpose yards, and 24 total touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to carry a significant offensive load against collegiate competition.
Other Wins and Performances
In limited NFL action, Evans has contributed 249 rushing yards on 66 career carries and 120 receiving yards on 12 receptions, scoring two total touchdowns. His contributions as a kick returner have added value throughout his professional career, with 223 career return yards.
| Competition Level | Achievements | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State | Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year, 2× First-team All-Sun Belt | 2018–2019 |
Darrynton L.A. Evans Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Evans has built a strong personal foundation alongside his football career. He maintains the Christian faith that has guided him throughout his journey in sports. His commitment to his values and family has remained consistent throughout his professional career.
Evans is married to Aiyana Willoughby, and together they navigate the demands of life in the NFL. Beyond football, Evans has developed an engaging presence in the digital space, running a YouTube and Twitch channel called ItzLiveee where he connects with fans and shares aspects of his life and career.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represents another chapter in Evans’ journeyman NFL career as he joined the Buffalo Bills on a one-year contract in March. The Bills valued his experience gained through five different NFL organizations and his versatility as both a running back and return specialist. His familiarity with the Bills’ organization from previous stints provided a smooth transition back into the team environment.
During training camp, Evans worked to establish himself within the Bills’ offensive plans and special teams units. Unfortunately, he was placed on injured reserve during the preseason, which temporarily halted his progress. He was later released from injured reserve, creating an opportunity for him to potentially join another team’s roster during the regular season as teams seek depth at the running back position.