The Buffalo Bills opened Day 3 of the draft adding to their backfield with the selection of Kentucky running back Ray Davis. This pick is getting mixed reviews by the fanbase and media, with some loving the selection, and some wishing they wen't with a different player, or position all together. The Davis doubters are upset because of his age, being 25 years old when his rookie season starts. But what is the national media saying about the newest Bills rookie?
"Sometimes fails to run through head-on contact; will brace and stop churning his legs."-Bleacher Report wrote in their scouting report of Davis. That's not the greatest thing to hear about a 5'8 211 lb running back that you drafted for his power. However, that can be worked on in the league, and we should see more bullying in the league.
"A lot of miles on the tires entering the NFL for an older RB prospect." Pro Football Network said about Davis. Which is a fair assumption. But how many running backs see a second contract with their team? This is a right now draft pick by Brandon Beane. He's not looking seven years down the road with this, that's what they have James Cook for.
“He runs hard as s--t. He’s a f--ckin' load."-one scout told Tyler Dunne. There seems to be different opinions on his run style. We may see two different versions of Davis in Buffalo. But the bottom line is this, when he's on, nobody is taking him down. He's going to be the Bills' version of Derrick Henry, and they tried to get that last year with Latavius Murray and Damien Harris. Now, they go a younger direction that will have more success in a Bills uniform.
Chris Trappasso said Davis is not a burner in open field, but he has good burst. Again, that's not a major issue considering their speed is coming from James Cook and Ty Johnson. Asking for a 211 pound running back to be as fast as Raheem Mostert or James Cook is silly.
Overall, the Bills pick has received mixed feedback for a multitude of reasons. There's a lot to like about Davis' game, and some stuff he needs to work on. But a comparison to former Bills running back Frank Gore Sr is always a plus. After it's all said and done, the Bills are getting a winner with this selection.