The 2020 NFL draft is loaded with talent at running back, with plenty of big names from powerhouse programs likely to command attention in the early rounds.
But if your favorite NFL team is looking for an under-the-radar prospect who could make an immediate impact at the next level, Appalachian State’s Darrynton Evans could end up being that diamond in the rough.
Evans recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his unique journey to this year’s draft, what he’s looking forward to as the predraft process plays out, and what he thinks about those who doubt him because of his level of competition.
JM: You were a 2-star recruit coming out of high school. You went on to become a two time Sun Belt Championship Game MVP, you were the MVP of the 2019 New Orleans Bowl, you’re a two-time All-Sun Belt first team guy and you were the Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year in 2019. Wow. As you get ready for this next chapter of your life, how will you reflect on all that?
DE: It’s always a blessing to be recognized for your on-field efforts. None of those accolades will matter at the next level however. Everything will depend on my performance going forward. I’ve worked hard to get where I am today but this is just beginning. It’s all about what I can bring to my next organization now.
JM: This is a long process you’re about to go through, but it’s a rewarding one. What are you most looking forward to?
DE: I’m really just looking forward to competing against the other guys in my draft class. We have some big prospects from some of the most storied programs in the country in this draft class and I’m just out to prove that I belong among them. This appears to be a strong running back class but I’m a competitor at the end of the day. This isn’t a big school versus small school thing. It’s one guy versus another guy. We’re all here to compete and prove ourselves at the end of the day.
JM: What would you say to the scouts that may brand you as a small-school guy?
DE: I would just tell them to ask any team in the country if they’re comfortable playing against App State. They would receive a lot of “no’s” to that question.
JM: How do you describe your running style?
DE: I would say that I’m an explosive guy. I’m a patient runner but I’m also quick. I’m elusive in the open field. I’m a downhill runner that’s always going North-South but I have the ability to make a quick cut in the open field as well.
JM: You were an excellent return man throughout your time at App State. Is that something you wanna do at the next level? What do you enjoy about that?
DE: Yeah, I most definitely want to return kicks and punts at the next level. I’m just trying to help my team make a big play in the third phase of the game. You always have offense and defense but special teams can sometimes be the difference maker. There’s always some big yardage opportunity to be had there. If I take a kick back 30-40 yards, that’s four first downs gained right there. That puts our offense in a great spot. That field position starts to take it’s toll over the course of a game. Those yards start to add up and those minor victories can change the outcome of a game.
JM: Who are some of the best players you’ve ever gone up against?
DE: I played against Javon Kinlaw this past season. He’s a defensive tackle from South Carolina and he’s a beast. He definitely stood out to me. We played against Penn State last year. The linebacker group they had last year was pretty impressive.
JM: The NFL Scouting Combine is coming up fast. Are you looking forward to any drills in particular?
DE: I wouldn’t necessarily single anything out. I’m just hoping to receive that invite and show everybody what I’m capable of. I’m there to compete. The whole experience looks fantastic. That’s what I’m there for. Let’s take that in.
JM: Is it true that you’re a big FIFA guy?
DE: Yeah, I love to play FIFA in my free time.
JM: Who do you use?
DE: That depends on what my friends are in the mood for. If we’re playing with international teams, I’ll probably use Brazil, Argentina, France or Germany. If we’re using club teams, I kinda just pick and choose. It depends. If my friend is using Cristiano Ronaldo, I have to use Barcelona and Lionel Messi. It depends on the match-up, really.
JM: Which do you prefer: A touchdown run of 75-plus yards, or touching on the ball 6-7 times on a long touchdown drive?
DE: I would say that it depends on game flow. If we need to get our feet wet and get a rhythm going, it may be more beneficial for us to get a full possession. Those longer touchdown drives can get you in a rhythm for the rest of the game. If we need a quick score, if we’re trailing late or something and need to get more possessions, a quick score is definitely the way to go.
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