Who is Evan Engram? Evan Michael Engram, born on September 2, 1994, in Powder Springs, Georgia, is a standout tight end for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL. From his early days at Hillgrove High School to his college career at Ole Miss, Engram has consistently showcased his talent and dedication. Drafted by the New York Giants in 2017, he quickly made a name for himself with impressive stats and a Pro Bowl selection. Despite facing injuries and confidence struggles, Engram's move to the Jaguars marked a turning point. In 2023, he had a breakout season, solidifying his place among the league's top tight ends.
Key Takeaways:
- Evan Engram, a talented NFL tight end, overcame early struggles to become a Pro Bowl player with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His journey showcases the power of perseverance and growth in the face of challenges.
- Engram's impact on the Jaguars' offense has been significant, making him a valuable asset in fantasy football. His newfound confidence and consistent performance make him a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
Early Life and High School Football
Evan Engram's journey to the NFL began in Powder Springs, Georgia. His early years laid the foundation for his future success.
- Born on September 2, 1994, in Powder Springs, Georgia.
- Attended Hillgrove High School, where he played high school football.
College Football at Ole Miss
Engram's college career at Ole Miss showcased his talent and set the stage for his professional journey.
- Played college football for the Ole Miss Rebels.
- Earned first-team All-American honors in 2016.
- Made 162 receptions for 2,320 yards and 15 touchdowns during his four-year career.
- In his final season, he had 65 receptions for 926 yards and eight touchdowns.
- Won the Conerly Trophy in his final season.
Draft and Professional Debut
Engram's transition to the NFL was marked by his selection in the 2017 draft and his debut with the New York Giants.
- Selected by the New York Giants with the 23rd overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft.
- Made his professional regular season debut and first career start in the Giants' season-opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
- His first career reception came on a three-yard pass by Eli Manning.
Rookie Season and Early Challenges
Engram's rookie season was impressive, but it also came with its own set of challenges.
- Caught 64 passes for 722 yards and six touchdowns in his rookie season.
- Finished the season as the TE4 in fantasy points per game.
- Led all tight ends in drops with 13.
- Suffered a rib injury that made him inactive for the Giants' 18–10 victory over the Washington Redskins in Week 17.
Struggles and Injuries
Engram's second season saw him face more struggles and injuries, impacting his performance.
- Finished his second season with 45 receptions for 577 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns in 11 games.
- Missed some time due to an MCL injury and foot injury.
- Despite struggles, was named to his first career Pro Bowl in 2018 with 63 receptions for 654 yards and a touchdown.
- Continued to struggle with drops, recording eleven drops in the 2018 season.
Move to Jacksonville Jaguars
Engram's move to the Jacksonville Jaguars marked a new chapter in his career, bringing renewed opportunities.
- Signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an unrestricted free agent on March 16, 2022.
- Finished in the top five among all tight ends in receptions, receiving yards, and yards after catch in his first season with the Jaguars.
- The Jaguars placed the franchise tag on Engram early in the 2023 offseason.
- Signed a four-year deal with over $20 million guaranteed in the summer of 2023.
Breakout Season and Pro Bowl
Engram's breakout season in 2023 and his Pro Bowl selection highlighted his growth and success.
- Had a breakout season in 2023, finishing with 114 receptions for 963 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns.
- Became the eighth tight end in NFL history to record over 100 receptions in a season in the Super Bowl era.
- Named to the 2024 Pro Bowl Games as an alternate, becoming the second Pro Bowl tight end in franchise history.
Injuries and Role Evolution
Injuries and changes in his role have been significant aspects of Engram's career.
- Suffered a hamstring injury and did not play in the Week 2 game against the Cleveland Browns on September 15, 2024.
- Utilized more as a blocking tight end than a receiver towards the end of the 2021 season.
- Faced confidence struggles during his time with the Giants, particularly when the team was not performing well.
Turning Point and Newfound Confidence
A turning point in Engram's career came during a game against the Titans, leading to newfound confidence.
- A significant shift in his confidence and performance occurred during a Week 14 game against the Titans in 2022.
- Reported feeling a significant increase in confidence after the game against the Titans.
- Now feels capable of making big plays and dominating games.
Contract Details and Future Potential
Engram's new contract and his potential for future success indicate a promising career ahead.
- Signed a three-year, $41.25 million deal with the Jaguars in July 2023.
- Led all fantasy tight ends with 143 targets in 2023.
- First among all tight ends in yards after catch (YAC) over the past eleven regular-season games.
- Ranks second to Travis Kelce among all tight ends in catches and yards over the past eleven regular-season games.
Impact on the Jaguars
Engram's presence on the Jaguars has been instrumental in their passing attack, providing consistent targets and elevating the team's offense.
- Serves as a safety blanket for quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
- Provides consistent targets, helping to elevate the team's overall offense.
- Considered a serviceable tight end in fantasy football, particularly in PPR leagues.
- Draft position is around the TE6 spot, offering good value for fantasy owners.
- Likely to remain a key player for the Jaguars and a dominant force in the NFL.
Evan Engram: A Journey of Talent and Resilience
Evan Engram's path from Hillgrove High School to the NFL showcases his dedication, talent, and resilience. Starting strong at Ole Miss, he earned first-team All-American honors and caught the eye of the New York Giants, who picked him 23rd overall in the 2017 draft. Despite early struggles with drops and injuries, Engram's perseverance paid off. His move to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022 marked a turning point, leading to a breakout season in 2023 with 114 receptions and 963 yards. His role evolved, and newfound confidence made him a key player for the Jaguars. Engram's journey highlights the ups and downs of professional sports, but his story is far from over. With a solid contract and continued growth, he's set to remain a dominant force in the NFL.
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