3 intriguing Buffalo Bills that can return kicks under new rules in 2024

Darrynton Evans

Entering training camps the Bills have five running backs under contract, including Evans. And while Evans is a prime candidate to be released before the season, he could find a home returning kickoffs.

With James Cook, Ty Johnson, and fourth-round rookie Ray Davis already on the roster, Evans won't be competing for offensive touches in training camp. But when the Bills signed him to a reserve/future contract after last year's playoffs, perhaps McDermott had plans for the former third-round draft pick.

In four seasons, Evans has only returned ten kickoffs at the NFL level. But during his time at Appalachian State University, Evans served as the team's primary kick returner — and he was very successful. Evans returned 56 kicks for the Mountaineers, scoring three touchdowns.

Considering the Bills also signed undrafted rookie Frank Gore Jr., they likely won't keep five running backs on the roster and Evans is likely the odd man out. But if he excels at returning kicks on the practice field and in the preseason, he'll have an outside shot at making the team.

In last year's preseason, Evans had a 42-yard kickoff return against the Indianapolis Colts while playing for the Bills.