New Orleans Saints: Let Marcus Davenport have a chance
Many questioned the New Orleans Saints trading up for Marcus Davenport. With good reports coming out of OTAs, there’s no reason to panic just yet.
During the 2018 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints shocked fans by trading up for defensive end Marcus Davenport. Many assumed the trade up would be for Lamar Jackson. Nonetheless, Jackson ended up with the Ravens and the Saints lost a first-round pick for 2019.
Everything is in the past now, but some are still freaking out. Scouts cited a huge weakness in Davenport and it was not being NFL ready. Despite that, there’s no reason to hit the panic button on Davenport just yet.
Thankfully, the Saints seem to sense that and have talked him up during OTAs. It might not ease all fans, but it’s certainly a good sign. Davenport has also spoken about adjusting to the NFL, saying (via NOLA.com):
"“These guys are good, and I got a lot of work to improve on to earn my rep.” At least Davenport is being honest and that should comfort fans slightly."
Some of the largest praise came via Saints defensive line coach Ryan Nielsen. Whenever Nielsen was questioned about Davenport, he was honest but still positive:
"“He belongs physically; there’s no doubt…He can really go. It’s exciting and it’s just another piece to what we do.” If anything, fans should be excited at the prospect of seeing Davenport make the leap."
There’s no doubt that fans have a right to worry about Davenport. He’s from a smaller school, is only 21 years old and is a very raw talent. While he might not be a ready-now talent, he has the tools that can be developed into an elite edge rusher.
Even though we have yet to see the risk pay off, the Saints seem confident. As fans, it can be hard to trust a team but in this case, we should. Not only did the Saints draft a successful class last year, but kept a similar focus this year.
The 2018 class might not be as explosive, but Davenport has the possibility to be an excellent football player. If he works hard, trains hard and listens to his coaches, there’s no telling what damage he can do. If all the reports are true, then Davenport is working his butt off to make an impact right away.
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It’s not going to be an easy road for Davenport, but he has a chance. Apparently, the Saints thought he was worthy of a first-round pick. As fans, everyone should take a step back and wait before everyone starts freaking out over Davenport’s progress.