3 Pass Rushing Prospects the Cardinals Could Pair With Chandler Jones

Marcus Davenport: UTSA

While most NFL fans recognize that NC State’s Bradley Chubb is this year’s top pass rushing prospect, Davenport is a close second. With four years of starting experience, Davenport comes into the draft as an experienced prospect ready to make the leap to the NFL game. Through the scouting process I was impressed with Davenport’s size and athleticism, as well as his willingness to fight through initial blocks and apply delayed pressure late into plays.

Davenport would give Steve Wilks another dynamic pass rushing threat across from Chandler Jones, and his ability to assist in run support and pass coverage would allow Wilks to disguise blitz packages and shift coverages.

While Davenport may share the athletic upside of Chubb, his college tape does bring some concerns to the forefront. Competing against primarily mid-major Division 1 programs, Davenport failed to dominate lower level prospects, as he was never able to accumulate double digit sack numbers in a single season.

To be fair, Davenport was double teamed frequently throughout his senior season. Unlike previous prospects that played at comparable levels, such as Troy’s Demarcus Ware, Davenport was largely unable to make an impact when facing more than one blocker.

Final Verdict: Davenport’s pure athletic potential is enough to give him a chance at the next level. While Davenport did struggle when protection shifted his way, he would likely face isolated tackles while lining up across from Chandler Jones. If Davenport slides to the 15th pick, look for Steve Wilks to make his first selection as Cardinals Head Coach a defensive one.