Few players received as many glowing reports out of New Orleans Saints training camp as Marcus Davenport has. The fourth-year pro seems to have flipped a switch, bringing a much-needed dose of physicality and burst off the edge to practices day in and day out.
And what’s most encouraging is that Davenport’s level-up extended to the Saints’ two preseason games. Pro Football Focus graded him as the top defensive end to hit the field this summer, and he did it in just two games. Davenport’s 93.6 rating was the highest of all his peers across the NFL in exhibition.
But that’s not all. Davenport was just one of three Saints players to rank best at his position: Marquez Callaway paced the league’s wide receivers with a 95.9 grade, and Zack Baun led the linebackers with a 91.2. We obviously need to see these players carry their success over into the regular season, but it’s encouraging to see them playing so well so soon.
Especially considering the large roles Davenport and Callaway are expected to play on their sides of the ball. Baun is projected to be the third linebacker in a unit that only fields two, but he’s shown he could push Kwon Alexander or be a solid backup plan should the veteran miss more time with injuries.
For a player whose career has been so frustrating so far, good news is welcome news for Davenport. “Two Firsts” has experienced too many stops and starts with injuries and quiet stretches of play, but it looks like he’s finally turning the corner and putting his considerable physical gifts to good use. Let’s see him do it next Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.
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