2020 NFL Draft: 10 Game-changing sleepers that will be available on Day 2
By Samuel Teets
8. Marlon Davidson, DT, Auburn
Marlon Davidson served as a rare four-year starter at Auburn. During that time, he showed continual progression, and he finished his college career with the best season of his life. Davidson’s senior year numbers vaulted him up several rounds into Day 2 discussions.
In comparison to Madubuike, Davidson offers less athleticism but more refinement when he faces linemen as an edge or interior rusher. Ultimately, Davidson’s build and skill set could lead to him falling into the third round. While listed as a defensive tackle, some teams believe he experienced more success as an edge rusher in college.
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While his hand fighting skills and upper body strength are impressive, Davidson’s lack of a defined position and past struggles against strong offensive fronts as a defensive tackle worry teams. However, teams may find his ability to line up at multiple positions more useful than originally anticipated.
7. Hunter Bryant, TE, Washington
Unlike some of the other tight ends in the 2019 class, Hunter Bryant fills the typical Jordan Reed-Evan Engram role. Essentially, he’s a bigger, more powerful wide receiver playing tight end. This doesn’t bode well for his potential as a blocker, but teams are willing to overlook his shortcomings in favor of a dynamic receiving threat.
Injuries limited Bryant during the first two years of his college career, but he exploded onto the scene as a junior. In 2019, Bryant led Washington with 825 receiving yards. He also recorded 52 receptions and three touchdowns. Scouts are excited about his soft hands and incredible ball skills.
However, at 6-2, 242 pounds, Bryant lacks the ideal build for modern NFL tight ends. He struggles with complicated routes and can’t break through press coverage at times. While he can feast on zone coverages, he lacks the explosive get off to beat early contact. Combined with his poor blocking skills, Bryant’s faults could drop him to the early third round.
Despite his many shortcomings, Bryant possesses one of the highest ceilings among all tight end prospects.