Signing Day Capsule: Marell Evans

When Marell Evans picked Michigan in early December, it was part of a stretch that saw a few unknowns selecting the Maize and Blue. Michigan's stall didn't consider Evans an unknown, however, and the athleticism he could bring to the Michigan defense drew the eye of Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr.

Marell Evans
WLB
Varina High School
(Richmond, Va.)
6-3/217
Star Ranking: ***
Position Ranking: 29

His Recruiting Story:
After starting as a two-star safety in the Scout.com system, Marell Evans bulked up. Michigan noticed. Growing to 6-foot-3 and 217 pounds, Evans has moved up in the rankings with a shift to the weakside linebacker position.

From the same high school as Michigan running back Brandon Minor, Evans recruitment also picked up with the move.

“I’m also getting recruited by Clemson, South Carolina and Virginia Tech,” Marell Evans said during his recruitment. “Along with Michigan, these are my four favorites.”

Marell Evans decided to make an official visit to Michigan in early December, and at that point it wasn’t long before he became the Wolverines 19th commitment for the 2007 class.

"I was in Coach Carr's office. He asked me if Id like to be a part of the Michigan program. I said, 'It would be an HONOR to be a part of the great Michigan program!’ The coaches told me this weekend that they need linebackers, and that's what I am -- I'm going to be an outside linebacker for Michigan! I had a great visit this weekend – my host was Brandon (Minor)."

In selecting Michigan, Evans picked Michigan over offers from Buffalo, Temple and Ball State.

GoBlueWolverine Commentary:
Marell Evans is a potential difference maker at the college level. Coming into the year under the radar, the Michigan staff was aware of him from the recruitment of Brandon Minor. It’s a good thing they did.

After making the move to the weakside linebacker in the fall, Evans blew up at his new position.

“I had 90-something tackles, six sacks and five interceptions,” Evans said. His speed at the weakside position had a lot to do with his success this past season, and bringing it with him to college will be vital to whatever success he has on the next level. His athleticism brings a dimension of speed to the Michigan linebacker’s that was exploited in five wide sets in the final two games of the season.

With that said, a few adjustments to his game will need to be made to get on the field. As a safety, Evans does not have the technique or experience shedding blocks to be dependable enough in stopping the run game. Adding strength, and improving technique through coaching, will be vital in determining whether or not this bright young star will ever meet his football potential. Evans will be one of the most interesting kids to watch in this class. His potential could take him through the roof, he just needs to take the strides and dedicate himself to improvement.