Mark Evans II On Mentorship of Former Saints Willie Roaf, Terron Armstead

HBCU All-American Mark Evans II talks about his draft interview with the New Orleans, and mentorship from former Saints offensive linemen Willie Roaf and Terron Armstead.

Mark Evans II, an HBCU offensive lineman and 2023 NFL Draft prospect from the Arkansas-Pine Bluff, had an eventful summer leading up to his senior season. Evans has won the Willie Roaf Award, which recognizes him as the best collegiate lineman in Arkansas. Later, he had the opportunity to meet with fellow UAPB alumni Terron Armstead and Willie Roaf at the Offensive Line Masterminds gathering. Why is this significant?

Evans was impacted by "watching Willie Roaf succumb to tears while talking about his time with the Saints and then moving on to the Chiefs. He cried, saying how much the city [New Orleans] meant to him." The aspiring NFL player was moved by Roaf's show of "emotion in a room filled with grown men. Being around all those greats in that room was amazing, and I didn't take it for granted at all."

Willie Roaf is a distinguished member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, while Armstead is highly regarded as one of the top offensive tackles in the National Football League. Both players built their successful careers by being drafted and playing for the New Orleans Saints.

If the Saints "take a shot on me, I'll be deeply grateful for it," Evans told HBCU Legends. "I really want to go out there and do my best and let them know they didn't make a bad decision."

Mar 5, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Arkansas Pinebluff offensive lineman Mark Evans II (OL15) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

At 6-3 and 303 pounds, Evans has the physical build of an NFL guard with 32 3/8 inch arms and large 10 3/3 inch hands. He was one of only two HBCU football players, along with linebacker Isaiah Land, to be invited to participate in the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. While Armstead and Roaf were both tackles, NFL scouts predict that Evans, a Houston native, will excel as an offensive guard or center.

During his conversations with the New Orleans scouts, the focus was on Evans' versatility along the offensive line. "Everything was just like a versatility thing. So, plug you in to see where you fit in," Evans said. "They just like my versatility and what I had to offer. As far as being able to play on the interior and outside at tackle."

Over the years, Evans has developed a close relationship with Terron Armstead, the seasoned NFL player who gave him invaluable advice on the league and the draft process. "Terron has definitely been a help to me, as far as just giving me advice on what I can expect going through this process. He has been a help and big brother in mentoring me, giving me any advice I need, and answering questions. He'll take time to help me out."

So why should New Orleans consider Mark Evans in the 2023 NFL Draft? They need healthy and available offensive guards. Starters Andrus Peat and Cesar Ruiz are coming off injuries at the end of the 2022-23 season. Adding Evans to the Saints' offensive line could bring a fresh perspective and enhance the team's depth in that position. While still developing his skills, Evans has the potential to learn fast and contribute to the team. The desirable trait for an NFL interior offensive lineman is intelligence. Evans has a good head on his shoulders as he has already completed his college degree and is now pursuing a master's degree.

The massive Golden Lion lineman should be available on Day-2 or Day-3 when the club has seven picks, especially the two in the 5th round and a pair in the 7th round.

Could Evans become another draft-day steal for the New Orleans Saints?

We shall see.