A standout chapter in State College
Maurice Evans arrived in State College as a defensive end and quickly became a cornerstone of Penn State's front line. From 2006 through 2008 he wore the Nittany Lions' jersey with distinction, compiling 100 tackles, 29.5 of which came behind the line of scrimmage, and 17 sacks that placed him among the program's more disruptive pass‑rushers.
His most electrifying season came in 2007, when he posted a career‑high 21.5 tackles for loss, added 12.5 sacks, forced five fumbles and even returned one fumble 55 yards for a touchdown. Those numbers not only highlighted his disruptive skill set but also cemented his reputation as a play‑maker on the defensive side of the ball.
From college to the professional ranks
After completing his collegiate eligibility, Evans entered the 2009 NFL Draft and was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent. Though his time on an NFL roster was brief, he also earned a stint with the B.C. Lions in the Canadian Football League before deciding to hang up his cleats and pursue a different kind of service.
Today, Evans works as a paraprofessional in Brooklyn, New York, supporting students within the New York City Department of Education. His transition from the gridiron to the classroom reflects a commitment to community that extends well beyond his athletic achievements.
Looking ahead to a 2026 showdown
The excitement surrounding Penn State's upcoming campaign is already building, with the first test scheduled in just 48 days against Marshall. The Thundering Herd present a fresh challenge for a program eager to translate past glories into future success, and the matchup will be watched closely by fans who remember Evans' contributions to the team's defensive identity.
While Evans' playing days are behind him, his legacy continues to echo through the locker room and the broader campus community, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved with relentless effort and a passion for the game.