There is a need for the Patriots to add a player who can match up against some of the bigger receivers in the NFL, with how bad Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker torched the Patriots in 2015. The pool of talent at the CB position is relatively weak in 2016 with a couple blue chip prospects in Jalen Ramsey and Vernon Hargreaves III. William Jackson is another name that could be considered for the first round thanks to a 4.37 40 at the combine. With the Patriots lack of a first round pick, the chances they could find a blue chip prospect are very low.
One option that could entice the team would be Maryland CB Sean Davis. Davis is the perfect package at CB from a size and speed standpoint. Davis ran 4.46 with a split of 1.50, 3.97 shuttle, 6.64 3-cone, and a 11.53 long shuttle. The long shuttle time isn't ideal relative to his other measurables, but athletically he fits the part of a potential elite CB. The problem with Davis is he isn't polished as a prospect with only two years of experience after moving from strong safety. His instincts aren't ideal and he probably isn't much of a factor on defense from the get-go. He would have to earn his way on the 46-man roster as a core special teamer then take over for Logan Ryan on the outside in nickel.
Davis' athleticism matches the tape very well, as he has a strong short-area burst that allows him to recover when beat. His technique on the boundary needs to be refined, especially in man coverage where he seems to struggle most. The lack of experience is an issue, as even Malcolm Butler had more experience at the position coming into the NFL. It's going to take strong coaching from both CB coach Josh Boyer and S coach Brian Flores to get Davis to play at a high level in the NFL. This guy has ideal measurables to play on the boundary, it's a matter of gaining experience.
I see him as a Big Nickel hybrid free safety/boundary CB depending on match-up. That type of versatility would allow the Patriots to be able to defend against the no-huddle offense, particularly against 12 personnel (2 TE). There is a legitimate chance that Davis busts in the NFL because his tape is very inconsistent. The athleticism is there, but he struggles in off-man coverage. I would like to see him used as a press-man CB because of his great athleticism. Overall, I have him on my 2nd round board. The Patriots need to hit on their 2nd round pick, so I believe they would pass on Davis because he's too risky.