2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: CJ Evans, RB, Samford University

• Name: CJ Evans 
• Position: RB
• College: Samford University 
• Height: 5’9
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: @Cj_evans5
• Instagram: @Cj_evans5

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft? 

• What makes me a top prospect at my position is my combination of versatility, vision, and quickness. I can line up in the slot, catch out of the backfield, and change direction without losing speed. I also take pride in being able to dissect the defense as a QB would be able to. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

• One thing NFL teams should know about me is I take pride on doing the little things right. I treat every rep and opportunity like it’s my last because I’m obsessed with the process. I know how to face adversity and battle through tough moments to get to where I’m trying to go. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be? 

• I would donate back to youth football programs. There are many kids in the world who would love the opportunity to excel in this sport but are unable, so giving them the opportunity to live out their dream would be important to me. There is a lot that comes with this sport and it provides structure, supports mental health, and can bring communities together. There are skills that football provides that will not only help on the field but in life. 

Who was your role model? 

• My role model would be my brother. He’s always eager to learn and takes pride in providing and being the best version of himself. He’s never satisfied and always wants more for not just himself but for his loved ones around him. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

• I currently do not have a favorite NFL team, but I just love to watch it and see players excel at their positions day in and day out. 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

• I would say the most underrated teammate at my school is Jaden Gibson our wide receiver. He has consistent hands and great route running skills. He takes pride in doing the little things right and can be a difference maker in game. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

• My biggest pet peeve would be someone who doesn’t clean up after themselves. It takes 2 seconds for you to throw something away or for you to make sure everything is exactly the same how you found it. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

• My favorite teacher ever is Ms. Malone who was my 1st grade teacher. She is a great person who cared about me becoming successful at football and in life. She was the 1st if not the only teacher to come to a football game and watch me play. She keeps up with me still to this day. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome? 

• The hardest moment in my life to overcome was coming back from an ACL injury. I had to rehab everyday for 9 months straight and it challenged my mental. By keeping faith in God and realizing my why for this sport, it made me stay focused of my vision, work harder, and rely on the saying “be where your feet are”. You have to focus on the day you are in, not yesterday and not the next day because that’s all you can control. 

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

• I would put McDonalds. Although, it is not the healthiest I have always liked it since a kid and it just kind of stuck with me. 

What is your favorite snack food? 

• My favorite snack food would be peanut butter/honey uncrustables or fruit snacks. These two are quick snacks to eat to help me keep going throughout the day. 

What is your degree in? 

• I have a degree in Business Finance, while currently working on my MBA. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

• 1. Reggie Bush- because he was a player that I can reflect my game after. He was elusive and had great vision in which I believe I have some of the same traits. 

         2. Bill Gates- his intensity and focus are often cited as traits of high performers and it would be great to hear about his thinking process. 

        3. My grandad- he was a funny all around great loving person and it would be substantial for him to see his grandson succeeding in football not just for me but for the family. 

What is your biggest weakness? 

• My biggest weakness would be not asking for help. I rather go out figure it out on my own than asking someone to help and judge.