Scouting report: Vontae Davis

by Dan Kadar on Jan 30, 2009 4:00 PM EST in 2009 NFL Draft

Vontae Davis

6'0, 204 pounds | Illinois | Cornerback

Strengths: Davis is the perfect combination of size and speed for a cornerback. He possesses the speed to stick with the fastest receivers and the size to matchup with the biggest. Unlike most cornerbacks, Davis likes to make a hit and is a sound tackler. Very good ball skills, even though teams rarely threw at him in 2008. Has the size to play at safety if needed.

Weaknesses: Has a questionable work ethic and attitude. Benched at one point during his junior year. Played in a cover-2 scheme that doesn't fit his strengths. Against the pass, was much better as a sophomore. Will sometimes play too aggressively by taking unnecessary chances on the ball. Needs to improve his technique some, particularly flipping his hips and running with receivers.

Final word: A semifinalist for the Thorpe Award this year, Davis has al the physical tools needed to excel in the NFL. However many, including Illinois head coach Ron Zook, have questioned his heart. Davis has all the tools but could be a risky pick.

Round projection: 1

Tweet Comment 3 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

there is no way he drops out of the first round, right? All the reading I’ve been doing about cornerbacks suggests that when you can get that rare cb with size and speed, you take him, no questions…I mean the average cb is 175-180 and about 5’9’’…We see what happens when they get matched up against TO or any big WR, especially now that goal line fades are the play de jour in the red zone…

by Graham Filler on Jan 30, 2009 8:17 PM EST reply actions

If the Patriots and Ravens pass on him, it probably means his character concerns were enormous. Both teams are desperate for a solid corner.

I’m guessing he never makes it close to that far.

by math_geek on Jan 30, 2009 10:50 PM EST up reply actions

He definitely has top 15 talent, that’s for sure. He’s got the size and athleticism to become really, really great. No way he drops out of the first round, though. Too talented.

I’m just not sure how well he’ll do with a db coach who isn’t a disciplinarian.

by Dan Kadar on Jan 31, 2009 11:20 AM EST up reply actions