he latest Dallas Cowboys news is a bit surprising as the team is moving on from linebacker Rashaan Evans. Heading into Week 17, the Cowboys announced the team is releasing Evans. Dallas activated offensive linemen Matt Waletzko from the Reserve/Injured list in a corresponding move.
The Cowboys signed Evans to a practice squad deal on October 12. The defender carved out a key role partly as a result of Leighton Vander Esch’s season-ending injury. Prior to being released, Evans played in nine games (including one start) notching nine tackles.
Following a standout collegiate career at Alabama, Evans was selected by the Titans with the No. 22 pick in the 2018 NFL draft. Evans spent his first four seasons as a starting linebacker with Tennessee.
The defender went on to sign with the Falcons in 2022. Evans notched a career-high 159 tackles, 6 tackles for loss and 4 pass deflections while starting all 17 games for Atlanta.
Cowboys News: Ex-Dallas Linebacker Rashaan Evans Was Arrested for Possession of Marijuana
“Former Cowboys linebacker Rashaan Evans was arrested on Tuesday in Frisco for possession of marijuana (2-4 oz.), a Frisco Police spokesperson confirmed to The Dallas Morning News,” The Dallas Morning News detailed on December 27, 2023.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy described the release of Evans as a “tough” decision. Given Dallas already elevated Waletzko, the team is unlikely to add a veteran linebacker in place of Evans. The Dallas Morning News’ Michael Gehlken reports that Evans’ arrest did not play a key factor in the team’s decision to cut the veteran.
“A Cowboys official downplayed the timing of LB Rashaan Evans’ arrest Tuesday for marijuana possession and its relation to Evans being waived,” Gehlken detailed in a December 27 message on X. “Various factors involved. Team needed roster spot for OT Matt Waletzko. Evans a candidate for practice squad if he clears waivers.”