METAIRIE, La. -- A few quick thoughts on the second of three fifth-round picks for the New Orleans Saints:
The pick: Tyeler Davison, defensive lineman, Fresno State
My take: The Saints are loading up their front seven in this year’s draft, with four picks in the first three rounds. Davison mostly played nose tackle in Fresno State's 3-4 defense. But the 6-foot-2, 316-pound Davison is both strong and athletic with some pass-rush ability, so he could play both end and tackle when the Saints mix and match between their 3-4 and 4-3 fronts. Think of the way the Saints used former backups Tyrunn Walker, Brandon Deaderick and Tom Johnson, among others. While breaking down highlights after the pick, ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. said Davison is relentless. Kiper ranked Davison 134th overall.
'Rhino' controversy? Davison's nickname in college was "Rhino" – which also happens to be the "spirit animal" nickname for current Saints defensive end Akiem Hicks. I'm guessing it's not a bad thing for a defensive front to have too many rhinos -- especially a defensive front that collapsed against the run too much last year. Davison had at least 40 tackles, seven tackles for loss and two sacks in each of his past three seasons. He reportedly improved his stock even more with impressive performances at the East-West Shrine Game and NFL scouting combine. Davison tied for fifth among defensive linemen at the combine with 32 reps in the bench press.
