NFL Draft: Grading each 2018 first-round pick after Week 11

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 08: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins is pressured by Marcus Davenport #92 of the New Orleans Saints during the first half at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 8, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

14. New Orleans Saints: Marcus Davenport, DE

The Green Bay Packers originally had the No. 14 spot, but then the New Orleans Saints came calling. They wanted to jump up in the draft and make sure they got their guy — Marcus Davenport. The UTSA defensive end was considered to be one of the better pass rushing prospects in this draft, but he was also a project considering the level of play he faced.

For the Saints, the move was all about making another run. With veteran quarterback Drew Brees inching toward 40 — and recently signing just a two-year deal — New Orleans wants to try and win now. They knew in order to do so they would need someone opposite Cameron Jordan, which is why they were willing to give up a future first-round pick for such a player.

Davenport has played well, but he’s missed several games to this point. What’s impressive is that while he hasn’t been on the field a ton, he looks like a more polished player than many expected from him coming from a school where he didn’t play against elite competition.

As of now, the Saints likely wish they got more from Davenport. But as long as he gets healthy by the postseason and can contribute then, they will be thrilled.

Grade: B

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