Darrynton Evans - Declaring for the 2020 NFL Draft

[EastHallApp]

Wait, are we really arguing that Kevin Richardson was more valuable to those teams than Armanti?

[AppSt94]

Wait, are we really arguing that Kevin Richardson was more valuable to those teams than Armanti?

Arguing over the subjective is pointless. I was stating my opinion on why KRich should rank high on the all time RB list and people turned it into a dig on the chosen one.

[Apple@chin1]

KRich is our Scotty Pippen!

[AppSt94]

We don’t win three straight title without KRich. Period. Armanti did not win one without him. Is he a better back than Moore, Cox, or Evans? Probably not. But he was the most valuable to our success at the FCS level. Next thing you’re going to say is LeBron is better than Jordan.

And we don't win those titles without Armanti either. He was the best QB in FCS. We also had some great DE combos on defense. Without Hunter and Murrell we don't win one of those titles. AE and the speed of Jackson was the difference against Michigan. As long as you know that while Richardson was extremely important, which he was and I would never argue that, Armanti was the straw that stirred the drink. Can't argue against a two-time Payton winner.

Bingo, it's a team sport.

It is a team game. The question was the best back. Not taking anything away from Armanti. But he won two NC. Richie Williams won 1. Neither won one without KRich in the backfield.

Neither one won without Dexter, Hans, Suttle,Holt, Brown, Lynch, Rauch, Speer, Woazeah.

Now I love KRich, always have and always will but your position is a little weird to me. I would think that the losses of Suttle, Holt, and Brown on the OL were bigger than going from KRich to Moore(another underrated RB).

It was just an opinion on KRich. Just backing up my opinion. To each is own.

[Black Saturday]

This argument is like arguing Jordan was the best basketball player Carolina ever had. Even though most ALL would argue he was the greatest pro basketball player ever, there are some players at UNC that can be argued that they had better collegiate careers. Literally, MJ, probably was not the best UNC basketball player ever, but the best at the next level. It is purely speculation and conjecture.

Same for who was the best APP football player at what position question. Each player contributed in a way that isn't going to be apple to apple by the fact they played different teams and eras with different styles and different scholarship levels leagues. To give any player credit for what they did at a professional level or camp doesn't do justice to each individuals importance collegiately whether or not they were invited to play in a higher league. My following dates back to the end of the Working football era after which APPs success which has been trending higher. Since then we can can make a LONG list of APP players that were damned great at their positions. Also, that wouldn't be fair to the players before my memory to exclude them from a conversation or argument. Different attributes and skills and the way each player was used throughout the decades can be argued who might have been the particular best. The way the game is played continues to evolve.

However, the one player that transcends the ages would have to be LB Dexter Coakley who as it turned out could have played for anybody. That is the epitome of the APP program-finding undersized and overlooked with potential, and developing them into champions.

Also, undersized and overlooked for the ACC, KR came from a NC 2-A high school and was named with highest accolades in the region in which he played that included players from the big 4-A schools in Fayetteville and Cape Fear region. Early on he may not have understood the adjustment of the game and commitment moving up to the next level, but thank God for APPs sake he didn't give up, a testament to his heart and toughness. He may not have had it for the NFL, but KRs accolades and records and contributions to APPs football history and championships should allow him to be in all conversations for one of the best at his position.

It's about what they gave to APP, not their measurables in a different era or a higher league.

[AppStFan1]

This kid has had “it” since Day 1. High football IQ, toughness, with big play potential on every play, and has loved AppState. While I would love Darrynton to stay, it’s time for him to get paid. Good luck, #3!

Here is the issue with going early though. If you aren't a top 100 pick you do risk being so far down the depth chart that you may or may not even be active. Rookies don't get paid that much after the 2nd round so if you aren't getting a big signing bonus you are taking a huge risk. Evans will definitely make a roster but he could have greatly improved and everyone has to know the NFL is a big business and without a degree you are taking a big risk.

A huge issue in the climate today is that almost no player wants to stay on campus and finish degree while they train. They all want to go to Atlanta, Miami, LA, New Jersey, or one of these facilities and have their agent keep them up. Many are taking loans from agents and are being given false info by agents. There are not more than 40 players each year who truly should go pro early. I feel like if you aren't a top 2-3 round pick for sure you should stay. Evans could help himself somewhat to come back but I do wish him well. Hopefully, he will work his butt off and know that his journey is just starting. All he did at App was his resume for his draft stock and does not dictate whether he will make it or not.

I know it's not a lot when compared with the higher end of NFL salaries, but if Evans makes a 53 man roster (which he most certainly should) the least amount of money he will make next year 480k. As has been said in this very thread; he saw what happened to Jalin last year and how it impacted his draft stock. He has already had one significant leg injury and he plays a position with an extremely short shelf life. He is making the best decision for himself and I am excited for him! I feel like we all know once he gets a chance to show out(most likely on special teams early) he will make things happen, because he is a special player and one of the best to ever Rock the Black and Gold!

Jalin's injury was far worse than reported. My first reaction on here was that he would not workout before the draft. However, it did not hurt his stock that much. He was only going in the 6th or 7th round to begin with anyway. Evans is rated higher by the NFL than Moore was.

I can argue that I would rather go undrafted than be taken in round 6 or 7. Here is why. A draft pick signs a 4-year deal. If you are undrafted you sign a 3-year deal. That means you hit free agency a year earlier and as a running back that is a great thing. Unless you are going in the top 4 rounds or early in the 5th round it is better not to get drafted. You can pick the situation or pick the best situation for you among your offers and you hit free agency a year earlier. I have had agents explain that to me in the past and it indeed makes sense. I know it feels great to be picked because you think a team wants you but a guy like Phillip Lindsay of the Broncos is going to get paid earlier than many RBs who got drafted in his class.

[AppStFan1]

This argument is like arguing Jordan was the best basketball player Carolina ever had. Even though most ALL would argue he was the greatest pro basketball player ever, there are some players at UNC that can be argued that they had better collegiate careers. Literally, MJ, probably was not the best UNC basketball player ever, but the best at the next level. It is purely speculation and conjecture.

Same for who was the best APP football player at what position question. Each player contributed in a way that isn't going to be apple to apple by the fact they played different teams and eras with different styles and different scholarship levels leagues. To give any player credit for what they did at a professional level or camp doesn't do justice to each individuals importance collegiately whether or not they were invited to play in a higher league. My following dates back to the end of the Working football era after which APPs success which has been trending higher. Since then we can can make a LONG list of APP players that were damned great at their positions. Also, that wouldn't be fair to the players before my memory to exclude them from a conversation or argument. Different attributes and skills and the way each player was used throughout the decades can be argued who might have been the particular best. The way the game is played continues to evolve.

However, the one player that transcends the ages would have to be LB Dexter Coakley who as it turned out could have played for anybody. That is the epitome of the APP program-finding undersized and overlooked with potential, and developing them into champions.

Also, undersized and overlooked for the ACC, KR came from a NC 2-A high school and was named with highest accolades in the region in which he played that included players from the big 4-A schools in Fayetteville and Cape Fear region. Early on he may not have understood the adjustment of the game and commitment moving up to the next level, but thank God for APPs sake he didn't give up, a testament to his heart and toughness. He may not have had it for the NFL, but KRs accolades and records and contributions to APPs football history and championships should allow him to be in all conversations for one of the best at his position.

It's about what they gave to APP, not their measurables in a different era or a higher league.

Coakley is the GOAT for App State and that is not debatable. As you said he would play in any era. 99% of those who played at App in the 50s, 60s, and 70s would not even make the 2-deep today based on athletic ability. They were too small and not fast enough. Players of all levels have gotten bigger and faster over time. The average D3 OL now is what the NFL OL looked like in the 1950s. It is just how it is. However, Coakley could indeed play in any era. If Edwards had come through today I suggest not only would he have had a great career in the SBC but he would have gotten a legit chance at QB in the NFL now.

[NavyApp]

And we don't win those titles without Armanti either. He was the best QB in FCS. We also had some great DE combos on defense. Without Hunter and Murrell we don't win one of those titles. AE and the speed of Jackson was the difference against Michigan. As long as you know that while Richardson was extremely important, which he was and I would never argue that, Armanti was the straw that stirred the drink. Can't argue against a two-time Payton winner.

Bingo, it's a team sport.

It is a team game. The question was the best back. Not taking anything away from Armanti. But he won two NC. Richie Williams won 1. Neither won one without KRich in the backfield.

Neither one won without Dexter, Hans, Suttle,Holt, Brown, Lynch, Rauch, Speer, Woazeah.

Now I love KRich, always have and always will but your position is a little weird to me. I would think that the losses of Suttle, Holt, and Brown on the OL were bigger than going from KRich to Moore(another underrated RB).

It was just an opinion on KRich. Just backing up my opinion. To each is own.

Sorry for coming off like a turd, wasn't my intention. Again I love KRich, one of those guys who truly defined being a MOUNTAINEER, took his opportunity and maximized it! My point was that senior class contained some all time App Greats and their impact has and will continue to transcend time. Again sorry for my abrasiveness.

[Mjohn1988]

So hang on a minute, what did Darrynton Evans do?

[AppStFan1]

So hang on a minute, what did Darrynton Evans do?

What do you mean? He is giving up his last year to enter the NFL Draft.

[appstatealum]

Ahhh. The off-season.......

[Mjohn1988]

So hang on a minute, what did Darrynton Evans do?

What do you mean? He is giving up his last year to enter the NFL Draft.

Just pointing out how far off the path this thread had wondered

[ELCubano1]

John Settle. No S on name. Played when we ran I formation, no passing game at all. He was a workhorse plain and simple. Our whole offense. Played for Falcons and I think he was pro bowl at least once.

I watched John Settle play. Our offense back then was 3 yards and a pile of dust. No passing game at all. He was a workhorse and many times the yards he gained was on his own. Truly gifted back. I would love to see him back at App, but he's in Wisconsin now as the RB coach and I'm sure quite financially comfortable.

[97APP]

Yep way off topic. But to the "who's the best" argument. There are two different questions
1) who's the best RB in App history? and
2) who's the best RB to play at App?

While the names on those lists may be the same, the order could vary greatly.

[AppStFan1]

So hang on a minute, what did Darrynton Evans do?

What do you mean? He is giving up his last year to enter the NFL Draft.

Just pointing out how far off the path this thread had wondered

I kind of figured that. Hard to express sarcasm on here sometimes. I better put a laughing face in there. lol

[AppSt94]

Bingo, it's a team sport.

It is a team game. The question was the best back. Not taking anything away from Armanti. But he won two NC. Richie Williams won 1. Neither won one without KRich in the backfield.

Neither one won without Dexter, Hans, Suttle,Holt, Brown, Lynch, Rauch, Speer, Woazeah.

Now I love KRich, always have and always will but your position is a little weird to me. I would think that the losses of Suttle, Holt, and Brown on the OL were bigger than going from KRich to Moore(another underrated RB).

It was just an opinion on KRich. Just backing up my opinion. To each is own.

Sorry for coming off like a turd, wasn't my intention. Again I love KRich, one of those guys who truly defined being a MOUNTAINEER, took his opportunity and maximized it! My point was that senior class contained some all time App Greats and their impact has and will continue to transcend time. Again sorry for my abrasiveness.

No worries brother. I didn’t take it negatively. Happy New Year!

[NavyApp]

No worries brother. I didn’t take it negatively. Happy New Year!

Same to you!

[AppStFan1]

Stats do not measure heart. I don't care what level we're at, if I needed two yards, I'd put KRich in the backfield and feel good that we're going to get it. If I'm the coach, there is always a place in the rotation for a guy like KRich.

Kind of like that #4 for UAB.... He was a beast in short yardage, but clearly couldn't be the every down back. That #4 would dominate the FCS. You just have to have game breaking speed at the FBS level to be an everydown impact.

Exactly. That is why Clemson dominates the ACC right now because they have more speed than everyone else. Speed is the difference. That is why I hope Shawn keeps recruiting for speed because speed is what matters. It is the one thing, other than size, that you can't teach. I rather have speed than have size though.

[AppStFan1]

John Settle. No S on name. Played when we ran I formation, no passing game at all. He was a workhorse plain and simple. Our whole offense. Played for Falcons and I think he was pro bowl at least once.

I watched John Settle play. Our offense back then was 3 yards and a pile of dust. No passing game at all. He was a workhorse and many times the yards he gained was on his own. Truly gifted back. I would love to see him back at App, but he's in Wisconsin now as the RB coach and I'm sure quite financially comfortable.

I know for a fact, coming straight from the horse's mouth, that he would love to come back to App at head coach. You are right about the money though that he would not leave his current role to just be RB coach. He would at least want assistant head coach/head coach in waiting type deal at minimum I would think.

[NewApp]

This argument is like arguing Jordan was the best basketball player Carolina ever had. Even though most ALL would argue he was the greatest pro basketball player ever, there are some players at UNC that can be argued that they had better collegiate careers. Literally, MJ, probably was not the best UNC basketball player ever, but the best at the next level. It is purely speculation and conjecture.

Same for who was the best APP football player at what position question. Each player contributed in a way that isn't going to be apple to apple by the fact they played different teams and eras with different styles and different scholarship levels leagues. To give any player credit for what they did at a professional level or camp doesn't do justice to each individuals importance collegiately whether or not they were invited to play in a higher league. My following dates back to the end of the Working football era after which APPs success which has been trending higher. Since then we can can make a LONG list of APP players that were damned great at their positions. Also, that wouldn't be fair to the players before my memory to exclude them from a conversation or argument. Different attributes and skills and the way each player was used throughout the decades can be argued who might have been the particular best. The way the game is played continues to evolve.

However, the one player that transcends the ages would have to be LB Dexter Coakley who as it turned out could have played for anybody. That is the epitome of the APP program-finding undersized and overlooked with potential, and developing them into champions.

Also, undersized and overlooked for the ACC, KR came from a NC 2-A high school and was named with highest accolades in the region in which he played that included players from the big 4-A schools in Fayetteville and Cape Fear region. Early on he may not have understood the adjustment of the game and commitment moving up to the next level, but thank God for APPs sake he didn't give up, a testament to his heart and toughness. He may not have had it for the NFL, but KRs accolades and records and contributions to APPs football history and championships should allow him to be in all conversations for one of the best at his position.

It's about what they gave to APP, not their measurables in a different era or a higher league.

Coakley is the GOAT for App State and that is not debatable. As you said he would play in any era. 99% of those who played at App in the 50s, 60s, and 70s would not even make the 2-deep today based on athletic ability. They were too small and not fast enough. Players of all levels have gotten bigger and faster over time. The average D3 OL now is what the NFL OL looked like in the 1950s. It is just how it is. However, Coakley could indeed play in any era. If Edwards had come through today I suggest not only would he have had a great career in the SBC but he would have gotten a legit chance at QB in the NFL now.

How about Dino Hackett who played LB in the 80's and starred for the Kansas City Chiefs?