Vontae Davis Official Website

 

Vontae Davis spent 3 years with the Illinois Fighting Illini before deciding to enter the NFL Draft in 2009, where he was selected in the first round (and 25^th overall) by the Miami Dolphins.

 

Entering the preseason Davis had a realistic chance to compete for the job as a starting cornerback but lost out to Will Allen and rival rookie cornerback, Sean Smith. Davis consequently started the season as nickel back, having to play a role with less impact in the Dolphins secondary.

 

In his first 6 games Davis had 10 tackles and one interception off Buffalos Trent Edwards, which he returned 23 yards for a touchdown. When starting cornerback Will Allen suffered a season-ending knee injury Vontae Davis moved up in the depth chart and became a starting cornerback until the end of the season.

 

In the remaining 10 games of the season Davis had 43 tackles and intercepted 3 passes for 41 yards. His total of 4 interceptions were the most of any player on the Dolphins team. 

 

Vontae Davis had to cover many top-tier receivers, such as Terrell Owens (Buffalo), Steve Smith (CAR), Andre Johnson (HOU), Hines Ward (PIT) to name a few, but his individual career highlight has to be the interception in Week 9 at the New England Patriots, when a spectacular catch denied Randy Moss of an almost certain touchdown.

 

The Dolphins ailing backfield was addressed in the 2009 NFL draft in which they selected two cornerbacks on the first day of the draft. Did it lead to the desired result?

 

In 2008 the Miami Dolphins had the 15^th best defense in the league, allowing 329.0 yards per game. One year later they allowed 349.3 yards per game, which was good for 22^nd in the NFL. The Phins allowed 6.8 more passing yards per game but improved from 25^th to 24^th best pass defense. The rushing defense dropped from 10^th to 18^th in 2009, while allowing opposing running backs 13.4 more yards per game.

 

The Dolphins also had fewer interceptions, despite a team leading four by Vontae Davis, and forced fumbles in 2009 but sacked opposing quarterbacks 44 times, which was good for 3rd in the league.

 

The rookie certainly had his ups and downs, which is normal for a first-year pro, but Davis kept the Dolphins in the playoff race until deep into the season. It appears the Dolphins got themselves the cornerback they envisioned. His athleticism is jaw dropping and his progress has been remarkable. If Davis can stay focused on football he will make a name for himself and not just be Vernon Davis little brother.

 
This editorial is exclusive for CurvSports.com in partnership with NovaFantasySports.com