“Built for the Moment”: KaTron Evans Brings His Journey and Grit to Marshall

Some journeys are linear. Others are built through detours, lessons, and leaps of faith. For KaTron Evans, Marshall’s newest addition on the defensive line, his path to Huntington has been anything but ordinary. But it’s made him tougher, wiser, and ready to prove that his time is now.

A former highly-rated recruit with stops at Tennessee and Jackson State under Coach Prime, Evans arrives at Marshall with something to prove—and everything to gain. Big, explosive, and driven by a relentless motor, he’s ready to put his name alongside the greats who’ve worn the Kelly green before him.

We sat down with KaTron to talk about his childhood, his winding football journey, and what Herd fans can expect from this gifted, gritty defensive tackle.

Let’s start from the beginning — What was your childhood like, and how did your upbringing and environment shape your path toward football?

I grew up in an area where you either played sports or got caught up doing things no kid should be doing. I was lucky to have a very strict mom who helped keep my head on straight and focused. Football became my path early on—it gave me direction, something positive to chase.

You were a highly-rated recruit coming out of high school. What was that experience like, and how did your time at St. Frances Academy help prepare you for the next level?

Being a highly recruited prospect was definitely different—at one point I was even a five-star. I lost that after missing a year, but the college visits were surreal. Schools rolled out the red carpet, and the love you get from fanbases—it’s something most kids only dream about.

Transferring to St. Frances was the best decision I ever made—even though I didn’t want to go at first. My mom made me, and I’m grateful she did. Living five hours from home, sharing rooms with teammates, and playing a national schedule—all of that made the college transition easier. We played the best—guys like Bryce Young, teams like Mater Dei. I went into college already knowing what to expect. Some of the guys I played against back then are already NFL first-round picks now.

You’ve had a unique college journey—from Tennessee, to Jackson State under Coach Prime, and now to Marshall. What are some of the biggest lessons or takeaways from each stop?

Every stop in my journey has been a test of faith and belief in myself. I’ve always known I’m a special player, and I’ve shown flashes of it. But now, at Marshall, I have the opportunity to show the world—and prove myself right. I know who I am, and I’m ready to let my game speak.

What made Marshall feel like the right fit for you? Was there something specific—coaches, culture, or a gut feeling—that brought you here?

Great question—a lot of my friends have played here, and they told me what kind of place Marshall is. When I hit the portal and Coach Street called me, it just felt right. My visit confirmed everything. The city felt like home, the fans were welcoming, and everywhere you go in Huntington you see people proudly wearing Marshall gear.

Then you walk into the facility, see those names on the wall, and I just thought—“Dang, let’s put my name up there too.” Plus, having a position coach who’s been in my shoes, at this same program—that’s rare. It felt like God lining everything up.

How would you describe your game? What strengths do you bring to the defensive line, and what kind of energy can fans expect from you on the field?

I’d say my game is gritty. I’m big, strong, and explosive. I demand a double team. My strengths are my get-off, and how strong I am at the point of attack. And I bring energy. A lot of people expect that from skill guys, but our D-line group is electric—and fans are going to see that very soon.

What are you working on most this offseason, and what kind of impact are you hoping to make this fall for the Herd defense?

This offseason has been about my weight—just toning up, dropping a few pounds. A lot of the flaws in my game came from carrying too much weight, so now I feel faster, more agile, and just excited to see what new levels I can unlock this year.

Are there any NIL opportunities or partnerships you’re currently involved in—or that you’d like to pursue—where Marshall fans could show support?

Not yet—I’m not really involved in NIL deals right now. I want to earn that. My focus is on football, and after I prove myself, the rest will come.

Looking back on your full journey, from high school to now, what do you want your story to say to younger athletes chasing the same dream?

To the younger generation—stick with your gut and always do more. I learned that a little late. I used to spend a lot of extra time playing video games instead of perfecting my craft. But now I know—doing the extra work pays off. Don’t wait to take your growth seriously.

Closing Thoughts

KaTron Evans has been to some of the biggest stages in college football. But at Marshall, he’s found something different: a home, a purpose, and a platform to be all he was meant to be. His story is far from over—but if you ask him, this is the chapter where everything finally comes together.

And for Herd fans? They’re about to witness a breakout season from a big man with a big game—and an even bigger heart.