One half of Virginia Tech’s draft-eligible backfield tandem has made a decision on his football future.
The other half? That one could be coming in short order as well.
Through a school press release, running back Darren Evans announced that he is leaving Blacksburg and will enter the April NFL draft.
“After sitting down with family, I’ve decided to declare for the NFL Draft,” Evans said. “I felt like this is the best opportunity for me and my family. This was a tough decision because Virginia Tech was good to me and my family and I had fun. I was blessed to play at Virginia Tech and at that level of football. I have plans to graduate and I will, but the NFL has always been a dream so it’s hard to pass it up right now.”
“Darren is really a quality player and a quality person,” head coach Frank Beamer said. “We’ve enjoyed having him here at Virginia Tech. He has been very much a part of our success, and we know he is going to have a great pro career.”
Evans had a very productive season in 2008, rushing for nearly 1,300 yards and 11 touchdowns as a redshirt freshman. He missed the entire 2009 season after tearing his ACL during summer camp, but bounced back in 2010 and led the Hokies in rushing (854 yards) and rushing touchdowns (11). Evans is also married and has a young son, so that likely played a significant role in his decision.
As for Evans’ backfield running mate? Ryan Williams, the Hokies leading rusher in 2009 after Evans went down to injury, has not yet officially made his decision, although it’s widely expected he will follow Evans to the NFL. Williams’ decision could come as early as today.