Cruz Evans

Class of 2027 | DB (S/CB) | Glenwood High School (Chatham, IL) I am a 2027 defensive back at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois, competing at both safety and cornerback. I’ve played tackle football since 2nd grade and have developed a strong work ethic through adversity and growth. In 2022, I suffered a Lisfranc injury that sidelined me for most of my 8th grade season. I attacked my rehab and returned stronger, only to face another setback when I broke my hand in the second game of my freshman year. At the time, I was playing both wide receiver and safety but transitioned fully to safety and cornerback while competing with a cast on my dominant hand for most of the season. Those challenges strengthened my mental toughness and commitment to the game. I stayed healthy my sophomore season and made significant strides at both safety and corner, continuing that progress into my junior year where I contributed heavily on special teams and gained valuable experience in the secondary. Heading into my senior year, I’m locked in on offseason development. Over the last 12 weeks, I’ve added 18 pounds through focused strength and speed training. My goals are to report at 185 lbs., run a 4.40 forty-yard dash, and increase my vertical jump to 33 inches by the start of the 2026 season. I’m committed to continuous improvement and bringing speed, physicality, and versatility to the defensive backfield. Off the field, I live with my parents, Brad and Brandy Evans, and my older brother, Drew, who is a mentor and role model in my life. I also have a pet gecko named Godzilla and three energetic dogs that keep things interesting at home. In my free time, I enjoy playing Xbox with friends and teaching myself guitar.