Before the Senior Bowl, Marcus Davenport’s name began to gain buzz. Scouts and pundits raved about the UTSA product’s measureables, his strength, and nose for the quarterback. Yet, the nation as a whole did not fully appreciate Davenport until Saturday. In Mobile, Davenport displayed his skills on a national stage, forcing America to sit up and take notice. Yet, if you talk to him, Marcus Davenport concerns himself with the result, not the adulation. FPC conducted an interview with him prior to the game. The Raiders could use top-level pass rush help.
Honesty
Normally, many draft picks expect a level of uncomfortable fawning over by media and fans. However, Davenport realizes where he can improve. More importantly, he takes a matter-of-fact tone with constructive criticism. For example, Full Press Raiders profiled Davenport here. Under area of improvement, the profile stated that Davenport “wrapped up the quarterback” better. To his credit, he accepted the critique. While many draft prospects seek the shelter of softball questions, Davenport takes the heat with composure and confidence.
FPC: After reading the draft profile, did we make any mistakes?
MD: I cannot say that you went wrong, you made your observations, and I cannot say that they are wrong without knowing the film you watched. You were exactly right about me finishing at the quarterback though. I need to work on that.
Humility
In an era of phony altruism, Davenport actually takes an active role in his hometown of San Antonio. Off the field, Davenport volunteers at an elementary school. Without cameras or fanfare, the future first rounder goes helps those in need.
FPC: Last season, you were named to the Wuerffel Trophy watch list. When and where did community service become such a vital part of your life?
MD: Honestly, it just makes me feel good. It was not always something that I actively sought out, I was blessed to be able to help, and now I wish I did more.
In addition, Davenport appears less than impressed with the opinions of scouts, as he approaches the task.
FPC: Right now, scouts tab you are a top-15 pick. Do you care?
MD: No not at all, if I have one bad day, they will change their tune. I cannot care about something so easily influenced.
Style
As the Senior Bowl and his gamefilm indicate, Davenport is a rarity in today’s NFL. Although he weighs 259 pounds, stretched on a 6’6” frame, he plays with thudding hands and surprising power. While most edge rushers will attempt to win on pure speed, Davenport opens up the array of power moves as well.
FPC: If you look at you skill set, which players do you pattern yourself after?
MD: I do not pattern my game after anyone; I can only try to pick out pieces that I think fit and make it my own. There are people that I do observe like Von Miller, JJ Watt, and Demarcus Ware.
Future Raider?
Earlier this week, the Raiders met extensively with Davenport while in Mobile. If you look at Reggie McKenzie’s draft history, his first round picks fall into one of two categories: sacks and picks. With Davenport fulfilling the first, it is not a stretch to envision his functioning as Khalil Mack’s bookend. More importantly, by all accounts, davenport cares not for the limelight. In a league for of self-promotion, Marcus Davenport lest his play speak the loudest. As a result, Oakland could definitely use a player of his skills and demeanor.
FPC: What can RaiderNation expect from you, on and off the field?
MD: I am aggressive and never settle. Not only do I want to win, but dominate and get better as I go. Also, I love forward to being a part of the community.
Want to write, edit, host, or produce with FPC? Join the staff →
Join the conversation
Bring your take to the huddle. Comments are reserved for Full Press Coverage members.
Strong takes rise. Keep it respectful.