New York Jets 2018 NFL Draft Target: Marcus Davenport

The New York Jets own the sixth overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. Here we take a look at a player they may pick, defensive end Marcus Davenport.

The New York Jets need a dynamic pass rusher. They always do. The last time Gang Green had a pure pass rusher was way back from 2000-05 when John Abraham donned the green and white. Bill Clinton was the President when Abraham made his Jets debut – that’s how long ago it’s been. New York owns the sixth overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft and they may consider a prospect that is zooming up draft boards: defensive end Marcus Davenport.

The University of Texas San Antonio product was the 2017 Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year and first-team all-conference for the Roadrunners. Davenport set single-season school records last year with 8.5 sacks, eight quarterback hurries and 17.5 tackles for loss. The San Antonio, TX native added four passes defensed, three forced fumbles and a fumble return for a touchdown. He also performed well at the Senior Bowl recently.

Although the 6-7, 255-pounder did not play in an elite conference, he appears to have all the attributes necessary to become a premier NFL pass rusher. He’s not bad at helping to stop the run either.

Let’s take a look at some highlights via YouTube:

Davenport was not highly recruited coming out of high school but he has really blossomed into an elite prospect during his four-year career at UTSA. As a 4-3 defensive end, Davenport has natural edge skills and a very live motor. His explosiveness and burst off the line is quite impressive. He has a long wingspan and a strong bull rush which he uses to overwhelm his opponents. Davenport has that rare combination of burst, acceleration and power that make NFL scouts drool even though he did not face SEC or Big 10 competition.

However, in games against Baylor, Texas A&M, Arizona and Kansas State combined last season, Davenport recorded three sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss. He also is sturdy against the run at the point of attack. He possesses the quickness and athleticism to track down a running back before he breaks containment.

Here’s what NFLScout.com’s Dane Brugler said of the dynamic Davenport via NewYorkJets.com:

"“He has those athletic traits that you love in a pass rusher. He’s still figuring things out, figuring out the dance, the move-to-move transition, how to best use his hands and protect himself from what blockers do. But when you just break down the traits, for that size, he’s really impressive.”"

The Jets will have an important decision to make in the first round. With so many holes to fill, they can veer off in a lot of different directions. Who knows – General Manager Mike Maccagnan may even trade the pick.

Next: Nick Foles: 10 Possible trade destinations in 2018

If they don’t sign a free agent like DeMarcus Lawrence or Ezekiel Ansah, then Davenport could be in play. He is expected to be chosen in the top half of the first round. Talented pass rushers are hard to find. Gang Green is going to have to seriously consider drafting Davenport. He’s not a finished product at the moment but his ceiling appears to be sky-high.