Tennessee Titans: What to expect from top 2019 draft picks

Tennessee Titans-3rd Round: Nate Davis

Another wild card of sorts for the Titans in 2019 is third-round pick, guard Nate Davis.

He was ruled academically ineligible in 2014, but jumped into the starting lineup in 2015 and never looked back, playing most of his games at right guard. During his collegiate career, Davis made 37 total starts and allowed just seven sacks, a truly eye-opening stat.

Davis spent his senior year at right tackle and started in seven of the eight games he played, allowing just four pressures on 237 pass-blocking attempts; however he did get suspended by the NCAA for undisclosed violations. It’s safe to argue his issues hurt his draft stock.

Davis’ strength is in the run game, where he has been described as a “mauler” by some and is at his best when moving forward. The Charlotte product needs work on his lateral movement if he’s going to be a bigger asset with his pass protection, but he’s already considered solid there.

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In his rookie year, Davis is expected to compete with fellow guard Kevin Pamphile, whose 2018 season was shortened due to injury. Pamphile has to prove himself to Titans coaches this year, so there is an opening for Davis to crack the starting lineup right away at right guard if he can impress at training camp.

With that said, the edge likely goes to Pamphile in terms of getting the starting gig, but even if that happens, Davis still holds value. He gives Tennessee depth on the offensive front with his versatility, giving the Titans an in-house option should things go south for whatever reason.

Should Davis start the season as a backup, the Titans’ offensive linemen better watch out because any dip in play on their part could lead to him getting the push to be a starter.