NFL Player News - nfl

Week 7 role unclear

After a week-long stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Perine returned to practice Thursday and looks to be back to full speed. Though Perine had served as the clear No. 2 back behind starter Joe Mixon through the first five games, his absence in the Week 6 win over the Lions allowed rookie Chris Evans to see his largest role to date. Evans was efficient with his 16 snaps (four carries for 18 yards, three receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown), and his strong showing may have allowed him to leapfrog Perine in the pecking order. Taylor noted that Evans and Perine are both capable pass catchers, runners and blockers, so no particular game script would seem to suit one better than the other.