Running Back– Ole Miss

6’0, 215 lbs.

Strengths

Zach Evans is one of the best running backs in this 2023 rookie class, as he is a fantastic runner with NFL-ready skills. Standing at 6′ and 215 pounds gives him the ideal size for a first and second down back. In addition, Evans displays a very good initial burst getting to the second level very well. He is fast, especially for his size, which gives him a fantastic combination of speed and power.

Despite not having top-end speed Evans can still break off big runs due to his excellent vision. Furthermore, Evans is a very powerful runner who is good at the line of scrimmage, runs well in the interior, and can break tackles. Evans also passes the eye test as he looks very smooth as a runner providing many highlights showing his excellent speed, power, and vision. Finally, it should be noted that Evans has great body control and agility with all the tools to succeed as a first and second-down back at the NFL level.

Weaknesses

Conversely, while Evans is a phenomenal runner, he lacks the ability to become a three-down back. When it comes to the passing game, he has never had more than 15 catches in a season. This will prevent Evans from becoming a workhorse back, and pass-catching running backs have a much safer floor in fantasy. Finally, Evans’ lack of ability to catch the ball lowers his floor and ceiling, which makes him a somewhat risky pick in your upcoming dynasty rookie drafts.

NFL Fit and Draft Capital

Evans has solid day two draft capital as he is a projected 3rd Rounder. Since Evans is a power back, his draft capital is extremely important as he needs to step into a high-powered offense that gives him high touchdown upside.

One of the most realistic and best landing spots for Evans is going to the Dolphins with the 80th pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. While the Dolphins have had a rough end to the year, they are a very high-powered offense without a very good first and second-down running back. The Dolphins have great weapons like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Tua Tagovailoa, allowing Evans to get a ton of goal-line touches. Even though Evans won’t be a three-down with Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson still in Miami, he will thrive from the overall offensive production to make him a solid fantasy option.

Going to the Eagles is another possible situation, as Miles Sanders is turning 26, and the Eagles often like to run multiple backs. In addition, the Eagles are one of the best offensives in the NFL, with a great offensive line ranked number one by PFF. On top of this, they have weapons like Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert.

Sanders hasn’t been fantastic this year and isn’t under contract for 2023. If the Eagles draft Evans in the third round, there is a good chance they will turn to Evans as the lead back and let Sanders walk.

The last Scenario would be the Chiefs, who, despite drafting Clyde Edwards-Helaire recently, are still looking for an elite running back. Despite Isiah Pacheco playing well in his rookie year, it is improbable that a 7th Round pick is the team’s future back. Furthermore, if Evans steps into the Chiefs’ offense and takes over this role, he has immediate elite-level upside due to how good this offense is. Evans will be taking over as the first and second down running back but still has phenomenal touchdown upside in this offense.

Evans is an elite-level runner who should be valued as a good NFL running back. However, due to his inability to catch passes, he needs to be in a good situation to be an elite asset. We’ll see exactly where he measures in at the upcoming NFL Combine. All in all, if Evans goes to a good offense and is given the starting job, he could be a fantastic fantasy asset for years to come.

– Dynasty Home –

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• ADP (SF/2QB)
• Rankings
• 2023 Class Preview
• Top 10 Quarterbacks
• Running Backs
• Wide Receivers
• Way Too Early Mock Draft

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