Buccaneers Draft 2017: Three Things To Know About Justin Evans
By Bailey Adams
1. He Has A Proclivity For Big Hits
Justin Evans is not a player that cowers away from contact. He will deliver big hits and take his fair share as well. Everyone loved Dirk Koetter’s line last year: “speak softly, carry a big (expletive) stick.” Well, Evans is that kind of player. That had to be one of the reasons that Jason Licht and his staff showed interest in the former Aggie. Now, the team is hoping he adds an extra edge to a defense that is on the rise.
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If you want evidence of Evans’ big-hit ability, look no further than his hit on Alabama (and now Titans) running back Derrick Henry in 2015. There is some criticism of Evans as an “all-or-nothing” safety, meaning he will make some big hits and miss some, leading to big plays. The defensive coaching staff, led by coordinator Mike Smith, will need to find a way to improve his tackling technique. Once he is able to correct some of those mechanics, he could develop into a safety that strikes some fear into opposing receivers that like to cut through the middle of the field.
Looking at Evans’ stature, you wouldn’t think he is much of a hard-hitter. He measures up as a 6-foot, 199-pound safety. However, it is said that playing with heart is a great intangible to have. From watching his film, it sure looks like he plays with a whole lot of heart. That’s something that the Bucs seem to love about him, with hopes that he can develop into a consistent force in the secondary, unlike anyone the team has seen in recent years.