He was one of four University of Alabama alums selected in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft and on Tuesday, linebacker Rashaan Evans made it official with the Tennessee Titans by signing his four-year contract during the second week of rookie minicamp.
The 22nd overall pick will pocket $11.7 million, which includes a signing bonus of $6.6 million and a 2018 cap number of $2.15 million – according to Spotrac.
Titans head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Dean Peas both believe Evans is the missing link in the front seven that can help the franchise make a deep playoff run.
Before his arrival to the National Football League, the Auburn (Ala.) native worked his way into being a marquee standout for the Tide. In four seasons, the former five-star totaled 151 tackles – 23.5 for loss – 15 sacks and 19 quarterback hurries.
He earned All-SEC honors in 2017, after his output of 74 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, six sacks and seven quarterback pressures. Evans was a part of three Southeastern Conference championships (2014-16) and two College Football Playoff national titles (2015, 2017), while his speed and instincts provided Alabama with having a stifling run defense.
Listed at 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds, Evans has all the tools needed to be a star for Vrabel and company. With his contract in hand, it will be interesting to see how he performs in the fall.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
