Cincinnati Bengals RB Chris Evans is ready to stun in 2022

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chris Evans headlines a short list of players ready to do more than just breakout.

In an article written by NFL.com’s Chris Trapasso, he lists five candidates “who could stun” the NFL this season. The name at the top of that list is Cincinnati Bengals running back Chris Evans. This ranking may be an eye-opener for some NFL fans.

However, it should be no surprise that Evans is at the top of such lists to those who follow the Bengals. He should be a popular player for every breakout candidate, fantasy sleeper, underrated, underused list, and so on.

Evans did not receive as much playing time at the University of Michigan as he could have. Thus he lasted into the sixth round of the draft, where the Bengals selected him 202nd overall. His draft weekend slide was due to an off-the-field issue and a lack of production in his final year.

But when he got his opportunities at Michigan, he made the most of them. He was a quick, fast, and elusive player with the ball in his hands. Evans also showed to be an excellent receiving option out of the backfield. His talents were undeniable.

All of those qualities transferred nicely to the NFL.

However, like in his final season at Michigan, Evans has not had the necessary touches to make a more significant impact. He is currently third on the depth chart, with veterans Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine presently occupying the first and second spots.

But perhaps this year in Cincinnati will provide more opportunities for the former Wolverine.

Of Evans, Trapasso writes:

"He averaged 10.1 yards per catch on 15 receptions and forced another five whiffs by defenders. He’s thick, bouncy, an effortless pass catcher. In short, he has the juice to threaten Perine for to be second in line for out-of-the-backfield touches on a dynamic Bengals offense. If he gets that opportunity — and I think he’ll get more action than he saw as a rookie — Evans will bust out in Year 2."

Like many young backs, they need to be able to handle blitzes before they can have a more prominent role in the offense. However, if Evans can show the coaching staff he can help protect Joe Burrow when needed, his playing time should increase this year.

Evans could push Perine for the number two role behind Mixon with a strong showing in training camp and preseason.

If Evans does get more chances, he will surely impress, thus rendering Trapasso’s prediction correct.

Who Dey?!