Rashaan Evans

Rashaan Evans Bio

Alan Rashaan Evans is an American professional football linebacker who has played in the National Football League since 2018. Born on November 8, 1995, in Auburn, Alabama, Evans established himself as a standout collegiate athlete at the University of Alabama before beginning his professional career. He was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft and has since accumulated extensive experience across multiple NFL franchises, including the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys. Throughout his career, Evans has demonstrated consistent defensive capabilities, recording hundreds of tackles and contributing to various team successes at both the collegiate and professional levels.

Early Life and Background

Rashaan Evans grew up in Auburn, Alabama, as the second oldest of five children. His family background is deeply rooted in athletics, particularly at Auburn University. His father, Alan Evans, was a running back at Auburn, and his mother, Chenavis, earned four degrees from the university, including a doctorate. His older sister was a cheerleader at Auburn, further cementing the family’s connection to the institution. Despite these strong Auburn ties, Evans ultimately chose to continue his football career at the University of Alabama.

During his youth in rural Alabama, Evans developed his speed and athleticism through unconventional training methods, including chasing wild horses. This unique approach to athletic development helped shape the physical tools that would later define his playing style. His formative years in Auburn laid the foundation for what would become a successful football career at both the high school and collegiate levels.

Path to the NFL

Evans attended Auburn High School, where he played alongside future NFL player Reuben Foster. As a senior, he recorded 77 tackles, including 43 tackles for loss, and 17.5 sacks while also contributing five pass breakups, three forced fumbles, a blocked punt, and a fumble recovery. His exceptional performance earned him recognition as a first-team ASWA 6A All-State selection during his junior year in 2012, and he participated in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game.

As a highly decorated recruit, Evans earned a five-star rating from 247Sports and was ranked as the eleventh-best player in the country and the number one outside linebacker in the nation. He was also recognized as an Under Armour All-American in 2014. His recruiting profile attracted attention from top college programs nationwide, ultimately leading to his decision to play for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.

Rashaan Evans Career

College Career at Alabama (2014–2017)

Rashaan Evans played college football for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide from 2014 to 2017. As a true freshman, he primarily contributed on special teams, appearing in 13 games with 15 tackles including two tackles for loss and one sack. His sophomore season in 2015 saw him continue in a special teams role while also serving as a reserve outside linebacker. However, his performance in the national championship victory against Clemson, where he recorded two sacks, put him on the radar of NFL scouts nationwide.

During his junior season in 2017, Evans emerged as a dominant force, earning second-team All-Southeastern Conference honors while starting 12 games. He tied for the team lead with 74 tackles and led the team with 13 tackles for loss while recording six sacks and breaking up three passes. His consistent performance helped Alabama advance through the College Football Playoff, and he appeared in three CFP National Championship contests over his final two seasons, winning two titles. Evans graduated from Alabama in December 2017 with a degree in psychology.

Tennessee Titans (2018–2021)

The Tennessee Titans selected Rashaan Evans in the first round, 22nd overall, of the 2018 NFL Draft, making him the fifth linebacker drafted that year. He signed a four-year, $11.7 million contract with a $6.59 million signing bonus on May 15, 2018. Throughout training camp, Evans competed for the starting inside linebacker position against Will Compton and Jayon Brown, eventually earning the backup role behind Wesley Woodyard and Will Compton to begin his rookie season.

Evans made his NFL debut and first career start on September 23, 2018, against the Jacksonville Jaguars, recording his first tackle in a 9-6 Week 3 victory. He inactive for the season opener due to a hamstring injury but appeared in 15 games with seven starts, finishing his rookie season with 53 combined tackles and one pass deflection. During his second season, he recorded his first NFL sack in Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons and recovered a fumble forced by teammate David Long Jr. on running back Damien Williams, returning it 53 yards for a touchdown in a 35-32 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The Titans declined to exercise the fifth-year option on Evans’ contract on May 3, 2021, making him a free agent after that season.

Atlanta Falcons First Stint (2022)

On April 4, 2022, Evans signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons. Playing in his home state of Alabama, he recorded career highs in total tackles, solo tackles, and assists during the 2022 season. This stint provided Evans with an opportunity to demonstrate his durability and consistency as a full-time starter in the Falcons’ defensive scheme.

Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys (2023)

Following his season with the Falcons, Evans joined the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad on September 12, 2023, but was released just three days later. He subsequently signed with the Dallas Cowboys practice squad on October 11, 2023, and was promoted to the active roster on November 18. However, his tenure with the Cowboys was cut short when he was arrested in Frisco, Texas, on December 26 for marijuana possession. The Cowboys waived him the following day.

Atlanta Falcons Second Stint (2024–Present)

Evans returned to the Atlanta Falcons on October 1, 2024, signing with their practice squad before being promoted to the active roster on November 1. He was later released on December 21 and re-signed to the practice squad to finish the 2024 season. This second stint with the Falcons demonstrated his continued value as an experienced linebacker in the NFL.

Driving Style and Strengths

Evans is known for his physicality and ability to diagnose plays quickly from the inside linebacker position. His college career at Alabama, particularly his performance in high-pressure championship games, showcased his capability to perform in crucial moments. He possesses solid tackling technique and has demonstrated the ability to rush the quarterback effectively, recording multiple sacks throughout his professional career.

Notable Events and Milestones

Among Evans’ most memorable professional moments was his 53-yard fumble recovery touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2019 season, a play that highlighted his playmaking ability and instincts. His journey from being a highly-touted five-star recruit at Auburn High School to a first-round NFL Draft pick exemplifies his sustained success at every level of football.

Rashaan Evans Career Wins and Achievements

Throughout his collegiate and professional career, Rashaan Evans has accumulated numerous accolades and statistical accomplishments across multiple teams and defensive units.

College Highlights

Evans’ most significant achievements came during his time at the University of Alabama, where he was a two-time CFP National Champion in 2015 and 2017. In 2017, he earned the prestigious recognition of First-team All-American while also being named to the All-SEC First Team. His collegiate performance, including key sacks in the 2015 national championship game against Clemson, helped establish his reputation as a clutch performer in high-stakes situations.

Professional Statistics

As of Week 13 of the 2024 NFL season, Evans has recorded 485 total tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions, 12 pass deflections, and 1 defensive touchdown across his professional career spanning the Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys.

Rashaan Evans Family

Family Background and Athletic Lineage

Rashaan Evans comes from a family with deep roots in collegiate athletics, particularly at Auburn University. His father, Alan Evans, played running back at Auburn, while his mother, Chenavis Evans, earned four degrees from the institution, including her doctorate. His older sister served as a cheerleader at Auburn, and numerous cousins also attended the university. Despite being surrounded by Auburn supporters, Evans made the significant decision to attend rival University of Alabama, where he would achieve national championship success.

Personal Life

Evans is the second oldest among five siblings, with one younger brother and three sisters. His upbringing in rural Alabama contributed to his development as an athlete, as he spent time chasing wild horses to enhance his speed and athleticism. He graduated from the University of Alabama in December 2017 with a degree in psychology, demonstrating his commitment to academic pursuits alongside his athletic career. He maintains an active presence on social media, connecting with fans through his verified accounts.

2025 Season Performance Outlook

As Rashaan Evans enters the 2025 season, he continues his journey with the Atlanta Falcons organization following his re-signing in late 2024. His extensive experience spanning multiple NFL franchises, including five different teams since 2018, has provided him with a unique perspective on various defensive schemes and organizational cultures. The 2025 season presents an opportunity for Evans to solidify his role within the Falcons’ defensive unit and contribute to the team’s success in the competitive NFC landscape. His proven track record of tackling ability and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset for a Falcons team looking to improve upon recent performances.