The Dallas Cowboys defense is not only taking a beating on the field this past week. But, they have a new wound that’s been opened that needed a quick bandage, which is why the Cowboys recently signed Rashaan Evans. The former first-rounder is no stranger to performing under pressure on the big stage.
The loss of Leighton Vander-Esch creates complications either way, as he came into this season with high expectations. This all fell when he went to the injured reserve and Dallas needed to find someone to teach the young linebacker corps. Evans is the answer to that problem and is “ready” to jump in for the Cowboys. It’ll be up to the Dallas Cowboys coaching staff if they would like to activate him soon.
The Alabama product spent five seasons having produced 67 starts with career-high numbers in 159 combined tackles. He’s also a two-time national champion so his experience is no stranger to what he can bring to Dan Quinn’s spicy defense. This mindset and experience can get that doomsday defense back to where they were. Fans will see if his mentality can match with the explosive defense Dallas has.
Former First-Round Linebacker Ready to Shine With Cowboys
A Hard Hitting, Physical Veteran
It very well seems like Rashaan Evans is hungry to get started even on Monday night against the Chargers. He reflected on what attribute he brings to the doomsday defense.
“Physicality. I try not to be too savvy in my words about my play, and I try to leave it up to what I’ve shown on TV, but I can’t wait for that opportunity to come.”
If that’s the case, he’s set to pair and mentor young players like Damone Clark and Malik Jefferson. A lot of work is expected for the linebackers, but they are getting much-needed veteran help. Evans has been waiting for the right opportunity ever since being released from the Eagles practice squad last month. He now has the chance in Dallas to not only continue to bolster the defense but to teach young talent.
Let’s not forget about Micah Parsons now he still remains the main linebacker for this formidable defense. But just imagine having both Evans and Parsons on the field at the same time. It’ll be like two tanks ready to rush through to scare the quarterbacks.
Expectations for Rashaan Evans This Season
Despite only expecting to be playing at the second level for now, he’s still set to make noise this season. Evans has 12 pass breakups, five sacks, 16 quarterback hits, and five fumble recoveries throughout the course of his career. It’s no doubt he still has a lot of gas left in the tank. The Dallas Cowboys defense has been lacking this same gas against Joshua Dobbs and Brock Purdy.
This is a perfect match to help one another to get back on track. In 2018, the Cowboys and Rashaan Evans had talked before that year’s draft. But, Dallas went with Vander-Esch during that year and it’s all coming back in full circle. Evans is the one stepping in to help cover the void by Esch’s injury.
The Dallas Cowboys defense shouldn’t be defined by two bad games because they are still heading in the right direction. Evans’ family is even excited for him to finally play for Dallas. He reflected on the call he got from the organization.
“They were definitely one of the teams I would’ve loved to play for and it’s so funny how things come full circle, to be able to have the opportunity now to come play for the Cowboys. As soon as they made that call, I immediately got on that plane.”
He’ll get a big taste either way if he doesn’t compete this upcoming Monday Night against the Chargers. Dan Quinn and the linebacker corps are thrilled to have him on board. Feelings are mutual so fans will wait to see if this new move makes an impact.
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Main Photo: Dale Zanine – USA Today Sports
