During their joint practice with the Chicago Bears, the Cincinnati Bengals faced a significant setback, with running back Chris Evans sustaining a season-ending injury. This development could have far-reaching implications for both their running back depth and special teams.
Chris Evans' Injury
Chris Evans, a sixth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Michigan, suffered a torn patella tendon during a kickoff return on Thursday. The severity of the injury became evident immediately, as Evans required both a cart and an air cast to be removed from the field. This incident has sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.
Evans' injury did not occur in a high-stakes game but during a practice session, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football. Such injuries emphasize the physical toll the sport can take, even outside the usual game-day scenarios.
Impact on the Bengals' Depth Chart and Special Teams
The absence of Chris Evans potentially weakens the Bengals' run game and affects their special teams unit. Evans, who was initially behind Zack Moss, Chase Brown, and Trayveon Williams on the depth chart, now leaves a vacancy that the Bengals must address. The team may need to lean more heavily on their existing running backs or seek additional talent to fill the gap left by Evans' injury.
Evans was also a key player in the Bengals' kick return game. As the primary kick returner for the first half of the 2022 season, he averaged 21.1 yards per return, demonstrating his importance to the team's special teams unit. His absence now forces the Bengals to potentially reconfigure their kick return strategy.
Career Overview
During his tenure with the Bengals, Evans appeared in 34 games over three seasons, including one start. While his spot on the 53-man roster was never guaranteed, his contributions were notable. He managed 19 carries for 89 yards and recorded 19 catches for 188 yards with three touchdowns. His performance as a kick returner added another dimension to his role in the team, albeit a role that now requires reevaluation in light of his injury.
Additional Setback for the Bengals
Evans wasn’t the only player injured during the joint practice. Offensive tackle D'Ante Smith also had to be carted off the field approximately ten minutes later, though the specifics of his injury and the expected duration of his absence were not detailed in the report. This dual setback adds to the challenges the Bengals face as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Future Considerations
The Bengals must adapt swiftly in response to these injuries, with their playoff aspirations still in sight. Immediate surgery and an extensive rehabilitation process await Evans, underscoring the harsh reality and physical demands of professional football.
As Cincinnati looks to recalibrate its strategies, both in the backfield and special teams, the situation serves as a reminder of the need for depth and resilience within the squad. The Bengals' ability to navigate these challenges will be put to the test as they proceed with their 2024 campaign, aiming to overcome this notable setback and maintain their competitive edge.