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Each year, the NFL Draft introduces us to prospects with unique journeys, untapped potential, and unrelenting determination. Dorian Davis, a versatile defensive back from Austin Peay State University, is one such prospect. Known for his positional versatility, high football IQ, and relentless motor, Davis has quietly positioned himself as an under-the-radar talent in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Adding to his allure is Davis’s NFL pedigree. He is the cousin of former New England Patriots linebacker Brandon Spikes and Super Bowl-winning wide receiver Sidney Rice. With a foundation rooted in athletic excellence and a personal drive to carve out his own legacy, Davis brings a compelling combination of skill, pedigree, and determination to the table as he aims to make his mark at the next level.
High School and Recruiting Background
Dorian Davis’s football journey has been defined by resilience, adaptability, and a relentless drive to succeed. A native of Shelby, NC, Davis excelled as a multi-sport athlete at Shelby High School, where he played a pivotal role in three state championship teams. On the football field, his leadership and athleticism stood out, as he amassed 85 career tackles and 11 interceptions, including six as a junior and five as a senior. Davis’s impressive playmaking ability earned him recognition as a two-time All-Southwestern Athletic Conference selection.
In addition to football, Davis showcased his athleticism in track and field, earning all-conference honors and qualifying for the regional meet in the 110-meter hurdles with a personal best of 16.84 seconds. Off the field, Davis’s commitment to academics was evident, as he was a two-time Scholar-Athlete, further highlighting his well-rounded skill set.
Despite being listed as a zero-star recruit by some outlets, Davis’s talent caught the attention of several programs, leading him to sign with James Madison University during the early signing period. However, he later transferred to Western Carolina University, where he began a collegiate career that would highlight his versatility and adaptability across multiple defensive roles. These early accomplishments at Shelby High laid the foundation for a football journey marked by determination and a readiness to excel at every level.
2025 NFL Draft: Dorian Davis College Football and Academic Background
Dorian Davis began his college football career at Western Carolina University after initially signing with James Madison University during the early signing period. At Western Carolina, Davis transitioned from cornerback to safety, a move that highlighted his versatility and adaptability. His impact was immediate, as he earned HERO Sports Freshman All-American honors, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic defender with the ability to excel in multiple roles.
Over the years, Davis’s journey took him to Southern Illinois, Towson University, and finally, Austin Peay State University, where he consistently demonstrated his ability to thrive in different defensive schemes and positions. Across these programs, he showcased his positional flexibility, playing free safety, strong safety, and nickel corner, while contributing heavily on special teams. His resilience and adaptability have been defining traits throughout his collegiate career.
Off the field, Davis has built an impressive academic résumé to complement his athletic achievements. He earned a bachelor's degree in sports management and is currently pursuing a master's degree in communication arts. With his combination of academic dedication, athletic versatility, and relentless work ethic, Davis is well-positioned to make his mark at the professional level as he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Scouting Report
Strengths
Positional Versatility: Davis has logged significant snaps at free safety, outside corner, and nickel. His ability to adapt to multiple roles makes him a valuable chess piece for any defensive scheme.
Run Defense: Aggressive downhill tackler who thrives in run support. Davis consistently demonstrates a willingness to engage physically and close on ball carriers effectively.
High Motor: Relentless effort on every play. Coaches and teammates praise his never-quit mentality, which is evident on tape.
Special Teams Value: Davis’s tackling ability and effort translate well to special teams, where he’s been a consistent contributor throughout his career.
Football IQ: A student of the game with a high football IQ, Davis is quick to diagnose plays and react accordingly.
Weaknesses
Physicality Against Bigger Competition: While effective at his current level, Davis can struggle against stronger blockers and NFL-caliber athletes. Adding size and strength will be crucial for his transition to the pros.
Play Recognition: At times, Davis can be fooled by play-action and misdirection, requiring further refinement in his film study and anticipation.
Tackling Consistency: According to PFF data, Davis recorded 39 total tackles in 2024 with five missed tackles (11.4%), further refining his wrap-up technique will ensure more consistency, particularly against larger, more elusive NFL backs and pass catchers.
2024 Season Highlights
Games Played: 8
Tackles: 39 total (Per PFF) (16 solo, 22 assisted)
Pass Breakups: 2 (Per PFF)
Coverage Versatility: Logged over 100 snaps at each position—FS, CB, and Nickel.
Top Speed: Recorded a top in-game speed of 21.4 MPH against Louisville.
Notable Metrics
Vertical Jump: Between 38.5-40”, showcasing explosive athleticism.
Top Speed: Elite sideline-to-sideline range, as evidenced by his 21.4 MPH tracking data.
Coverage Versatility: Extensive experience across multiple roles, allowing defensive coordinators to deploy him in a variety of schemes.
NFL Style Comparisons
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (Detroit Lions): Davis mirrors Gardner-Johnson’s versatility and ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, from free safety to nickel corner.
K’Waun Williams (Denver Broncos): Davis’s skill set in man and zone coverage, combined with his value in run support, is reminiscent of Williams. Both bring a high motor and consistent effort to their respective teams.
Key Quotes
On his work ethic & Playstyle: "A hard worker with a high football IQ, I play fast and physically, and I love covering guys. If the ball is coming my way, I’m going to lock it down."— Dorian Davis, via Justin Berendzen for Draft Diamonds.
On adversity: “My greatest motivation is my daughter. She inspires me every day to push harder and be the best version of myself.” — Dorian Davis
NFL Draft Projection
Projected Round: Undrafted Free Agent
Best Scheme Fit: 4-2-5 or 3-3-5 schemes that utilize versatile defensive backs who can fill multiple roles.
Summary
Dorian Davis is an intriguing 2025 NFL Draft prospect whose combination of versatility, football IQ, and relentless motor positions him as a valuable developmental player in the secondary. With experience across multiple roles—free safety, nickel corner, and outside corner—Davis’s adaptability allows him to excel in various defensive schemes. His top in-game speed of 21.4 MPH and vertical leap of 38.5 to 40 inches highlight his athleticism, while his tackling grade of 73.3 and coverage versatility demonstrate his ability to contribute against both the pass and the run. These traits, along with his relentless effort and strong film study habits, make him a prime candidate for teams seeking a hybrid defender with special teams value.
Off the field, Davis’s commitment to excellence is evident in his academic pursuits, earning a bachelor’s degree in sports management and pursuing a master’s in communication arts. Having played at Western Carolina, Southern Illinois, Towson University, and Austin Peay, Davis has proven his resilience and adaptability by thriving under different systems and competition levels. Although projected as an undrafted free agent, a strong showing in pre-draft events could boost his stock. With his high character, versatility, and special teams potential, Davis is a high-upside player who could become a hidden gem in the 2025 NFL Draft.