Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is getting some work inside at practice, according to Roy Cummings of Tampa Bay Online. Evans, a rookie first-round pick, made a name for himself working outside in college, and figures to get plenty of time doing that at the next level as well. But head coach Lovie Smith says that Evans being inside could lead to desirable matchups with smaller cornerbacks.
Mike Evans lining up inside at practice, could be a good sign for fantasy owners
Mike Evans is diversifying and lining up in the slot in practice. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Smith said that “most of the nickel backs” in the NFL are short, which creates a “pretty good matchup” for someone like Evans. Evans is a towering 6’5 and already has an advantage over most cornerbacks in the league when it comes to size. Trying to defend him on an inside slant when he presents such a big target seems like a nightmare.
Fantasy Impact: Evans is going to be a tough matchup anywhere on the field. He'll likely make his money on the outside, as usual, but getting some work in as a slot receiver would be a good change of pace and a great opportunity for him to see the field early and often. Vincent Jackson will play outside as one starter, of course, but there are other guys the Buccaneers can put out there in place of Evans. He remains a strong fantasy play as far as rookies are concerned.
