Packers 2018 Draft: Pros and cons of every top prospect

2. Marcus Davenport, EDGE, UTSA

Pros: Davenport established himself as one of the nation’s fiercest pass rushers while at the University of Texas-San Antonio. At 6-foot-6, Davenport towers above the rest of the defensive line. The mammoth defensive end is considered the second best at his position in this draft, only behind Bradley Chubb. Davenport fits the type of mold that Mike McCarthy has looked for in defensive linemen in the past.

McCarthy asked then-general manager Ted Thompson after the 2013 season to equip his defense with taller defensive linemen. Thompson responded by signing all 6-foot-7 of Julius Peppers. Davenport is just about as tall as Peppers, and while raw as can be, has extreme potential at the next level.

Adding Davenport would also give the Packers a pretty stout defensive line. Muhammad Wilkerson on one side, with Davenport on the other and Mike Daniels and Kenny Clark in the middle would make life miserable for opposing offensive lines. It would be the first time in far too long that the Packers would have a position group on defense that would be considered a legitimate strength.

Cons: Davenport is a risky pick for Brian Gutekunst. While the 21-year-old was freakishly productive during his time in college, he was a bit of a one-dimensional player. Davenport excelled at getting to the quarterback, but never put enough on tape to suggest he is as or nearly as strong against the run.

Scouts describe him as a bit of a stiff player without much lateral quickness. The Packers will face Jordan Howard, Todd Gurley, LeSean McCoy, David Johnson and Devonta Freeman next season. Having a defensive end who can set the edge is important, and drafting Davenport might force Mike Pettine to call a few more blitzes than he would otherwise like to.

The Packers are also using a new set of defensive line coaches this coming season, which will take some time to get used to along with Pettine. The Packers might be better served looking elsewhere for defensive help.