In 2013, it was Brandon Williams. In 2014, it was Timmy Jernigan. This year, it is Carl Davis.
Yet again the Baltimore Ravens strike on the second day of the draft by scooping up a defensive lineman who was available later than expected.
With the 90th overall pick in the draft, the Ravens selected Davis, a defensive tackle formerly of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Given the departure of Haloti Ngata, as well as Baltimore’s consistent annual focus on the defensive line during the draft, the selection of Davis was a logical one.
At 6’5, 320-lbs, Davis is a traditional interior gap occupier with inherent run-stopping ability. His large hands (11″) and violent playing style allow him to properly disengage and close up gaps inside, and his pass rushing ability is enough to not label him as a one-dimensional player:
New Ravens DT Carl Davis had a Pass Rushing Productivity Rating of 9.4 v Power 5 Opponents, 2nd best among DTs in this class
— PFF (@PFF) May 2, 2015
Statistically, Davis never truly stood out, as he totaled just 14.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks during his college career. But based on pure impact, his presence was felt, and he can be a disruptor in the NFL while also tallying a few sacks each season at his peak.
Both Williams and Jernigan make their living playing active and finishing through blocks to disengage; Davis is no different. Throw in Davis’ desirable measurables and adequate athleticism, and at the end of the third round, he offers plenty of value.
With Williams already in place as Baltimore’s premier nose tackle, Davis will likely not be expected to take on an overwhelming role in 2015. Similar to the career paths of Williams and Jernigan, Davis can work in rotationally as a rookie before possibly handling a heavier workload during his sophomore season.
The Ravens add talent to their defensive line through the draft like clockwork, and Davis continues that tradition. With plenty of quality players already in place along the front three, Baltimore’s selection of Davis allows the rich to get just a bit more wealthy.
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