(Editor's Note: While the start of the 2018 NFL Draft isn't until April 26, it's never too early to profile some of the key participants. The staff of DallasCowboys.com intends to preview the landscape of the draft's top prospect, with an emphasis on possible Cowboys draft picks – from the first round to the last. Today's featured player is UTSA's Marcus Davenport.)
- Name: Marcus Davenport
- Position: Defensive End
- College:Texas-San Antonio (UTSA)
- Height/Weight:6-6 / 259
- Honors:Named 2017 Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year.
- Key Stat:Finished school as UTSA's all-time leader in sacks (22), tackles for loss (38) and quarterback hurries (21).
Where He's Projected:
Davenport isn't the easiest player to evaluate, mainly because he didn't face elite competition on a regular basis at UTSA. His 11-tackle game at Texas A&M in 2016 definitely helps, as did his solid performances at the Senior Bowl. But he's a first-round talent who could land in the Top 10 to maybe in the 20s if teams are scared off by his lack of experience.
How He Helps The Cowboys:
If he's available at No. 19, it would be a player the Cowboys could and should consider, mainly because pass-rushers are always coveted. He'd help the Cowboys with his athletic ability and rush off the edge. Even if he didn't start right away, the Cowboys could always use him in a rotation, especially on third downs and passing situations.
- Prospect that is creating plenty of buzz in the scouting community.
- Perfect physical traits for a defensive end at 6-6, 259.
- Played in a two-point stance but got some work with his hand down in the Senior Bowl.
- Blockers had a hard time dealing with his initial pop and power.
- Plays with initial quickness and movement. Will need to develop some escape moves but tools are there.
- Respect the way that he plays like a bully.
