ESPN reports that Evans had to be carted off the field after suffering a torn patella tendon and was immediately fitted with an air cast to immobilize his right leg. While the team has yet to confirm the extent of Evans' injury, multiple outlets have indicated that the 2021 sixth-round pick will unfortunately miss the entire 2024 NFL season.

This unfortunate incident comes just a day after another former Michigan player, quarterback J.J. McCarthy, underwent surgery for a torn right meniscus, ruling him out for his rookie year with the Minnesota Vikings. It seems that luck has not been on the side of Michigan alumni in the NFL preseason.

Evans, who displayed his talent at Michigan by rushing for 1,795 yards with an impressive average of 5.6 yards per carry and scoring 15 touchdowns over four seasons, has been playing as a reserve running back for the Bengals since joining the league in 2021. His journey has not been without obstacles, as he was suspended for the entire 2019 season before making a comeback in 2020.

Throughout his rookie year, Evans showed glimpses of his potential by catching 15 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns, in addition to rushing 17 times for 77 yards in 14 games. However, his offensive opportunities have been limited over the past two seasons, with only six touches on offense in 20 games. Evans has primarily been utilized on special teams and kick return duties, showcasing his versatility and value to the team.

With Joe Mixon, the Bengals' longstanding starting running back, being traded to the Houston Texans this offseason, Evans was hopeful of securing a larger role in the backfield. The competition includes free agency acquisition Zack Moss and promising second-year running back Chase Brown. It is unfortunate that this injury has disrupted Evans' plans to carve out a more prominent position within the team.

In the Bengals' preseason-opening game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Evans had a limited role, carrying the ball once for 1 yard and making two receptions for a total of 8 yards. It was a small sample, but one that hinted at his potential contributions if given the opportunity.

The Bengals will certainly miss Evans' presence on the field this season, as they aim to build upon their successes from the previous year. It remains to be seen how the team will adjust their game plan in light of Evans' absence, but one thing is certain - his absence will be felt by fans, teammates, and coaches alike.

As Evans now embarks on the road to recovery, Bengals fans and the entire football community will be wishing him a speedy and full recovery, hopeful to see him return to the gridiron stronger than ever in the future.