Maiocco just posted that the 49ers have agreed to a contract with former Redskins DE Demetric Evans for 2 years, $3.8M. A press release hasn't gone out yet, and seeing as Evans had flown back to DC, I'm assuming the physical signing of the contract will happen in the next few days.
Although we may not know much about Demetric Evans, the dollars and the scouting report would indicate it's strictly a depth move. While his stats aren't off the chart, as a 3-4 DE he'd be used more to open up holes for the outside linebackers to get through, similar to what the nose tackle does for inside linebackers.
A quick SB Nation search brought up a February 18 article over at Hogs Haven, our Redskins blog. They linked to a Washington Times article about Evans with some interesting thoughts from him:
"I've proven I can start in one of the toughest divisions in football," Evans said this week. "I don't want to be a backup anymore. I started in 2005 at tackle when Cornelius [Griffin] was hurt, and I started at end when Phillip [Daniels] was hurt in 2004 and again last year. I want to stay in Washington, but I want to be a starter."
As for the folks at Hogs Haven?
Listen, I like Demetric Evans. I think his value to our team is pretty high . . .He is going to be 30 years old next season. He has been a heck of a contributor to our defense in his role as a fill-in at end and tackle. We can not only use him, we probably need him. After all, he is pretty solid against the run . . . But can we devote resources to this guy--starter salary-type resources?
Bottom line, I want Evans back, but not under a stupid contract that wraps up cap space we should be using on younger guys in the next couple of years.
Well, it's certainly not a stupid contract. I wonder if Evans valued himself more than others did, or if this is the kind of deal he was expecting.
With Justin Smith locked in at right defensive end, the competition begins between Evans, Isaac Sopoaga, Kentwan Balmer and Ray McDonald. Of all those guys, I think McDonald is the one who will find himself locked in as a pass rush specialist. Balmer and Sopoaga may look to get some reps at nose tackle, unless the 49ers go big with B.J. Raji at #10. The battle for that left defensive end position will be interesting come training camp.