ATHENS — Shortly after news first broke that Georgia wide receivers coach Bryan McClendon would be departing the program to become the wide receivers coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Georgia wide receiver Anthony Evans shared his reaction to the news.
Evans signed to play for McClendon as a member of Georgia’s 2023 recruiting staff. And based on how Evans finished the 2023 season, he seemed like someone who was primed for a bigger role after working with McClendon heading into the 2024 season.
In Georgia’s final two games of the season, Evans showed real playmaking ability. Against Alabama, with Georgia trailing 20-10 in the fourth quarter Evans ripped off a 28-yard return that helped set up Georgia’s first touchdown of the second half.
“We’ve been working on that for a long time,” Evans said following Georgia’s win over Florida State. “For my number to be called in such a big moment in the game, my coaches believed in and my teammates believed in me, so I went out there and trusted myself to make a play.”
Evans was Georgia’s primary punt returner in the Orange Bowl after Mekhi Mews entered the transfer portal. He had an additional two punt returns for 21 yards in the win.
Even with Georgia bringing in three wide receivers via the transfer portal this offseason, Evans’ speed is something that should get him on the field for Georgia in 2024. It certainly helps him as a punt returner, and should make a difference in a wide receiver room that loses Ladd McConkey and Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint. Evans could play a role similar to that of McConkey, who consistently used his speed and route running to create big plays for the Georgia offense.
Evans came down with his first career touchdown in the Orange Bowl win over Florida State. The 14-yard reception may not have meant much to those watching the 63-3 blowout win for Georgia, but for Evans it was a great way to end his freshman season.
His final catch of the season left Evans with just four receptions for 35 yards. He knows he’s going to have to improve in a number of areas to contribute on a more regular basis for the Bulldogs.
“Everything. Really, flexibility,” Evans said. “I feel like I have room to grow so that’s something I’m going to continue to work on.”
Evans will be playing with a new receivers coach in 2024 with McClendon moving on. Whoever steps in for McClendon will have a promising young piece to work with in Evans.
One who is looking forward to playing a more critical role for Georgia next season.
