2023 Senior Bowl Scouting Notes: WR Derius Davis, TCU

Derius Davis is an intriguing evaluation because of his potential fit at the next level. He was an explosive kick and punt returner at TCU, flashing the ability to create huge plays on special teams but had issues with hanging onto the ball. He’s a great blocker out of the slot but isn’t great at catching through contact. Ultimately, I think Davis is drafted and given a fair shake at playing in the NFL.

Derius Davis

Slot WR – Texas Christian Horned Frogs

HT: 5086
WT: 162
Year: Redshirt Junior
High School: West Deliciana (Saint Francisville, LA)
Rating: 3-star (0.8532)

Projected Draft Grade: Backup Slot

Projection: 5th/7th Round

https://twitter.com/cfbsharps1/status/1565906405399355392?s=61&t=q4OVuY_Kf-XtXjLEPu_-Bg

Derius Davis scouting notes

Pros:

Solid speed. Was one of the fastest men in the country this year on a punt return, hitting 22.6 miles per hour.
Fairly explosive.
Ran a decent route tree at TCU from a multitude of spots.
Has a decent release, but nothing really special.
Does show the ability to use an extended catch radius to secure the ball.
Consistently finds a way to sneak downfield and end up wide open.
Very decent run blocker. Holds up well against defensive backs.
Was fairly consistent as a run blocker, surprisingly.

Cons:

Just not as good with his body control as he needs to be at his size.
Average route runner, I don’t see too much special.
Hands are problematic. TCU used Davis as a punt returner this year and he struggled with muffs on top of his drops on the field.
Does not catch well through contact.
Doesn’t have a tremendous amount of creativity as a runner after the catch. About average.