NFL Draft results 2015: Carl Davis taken by Ravens, Chaz Green to Cowboys

Davis is one of the few true nose tackles available in this draft class. At his size (6’5, 320 pounds), he can anchor both a 4-3 and 3-4 defensive line. He can do more than just eat space -- Davis possesses the strength and athleticism to create pressure over the center.

Green is considered a solid pass blocker, but he has issues in the run game. Despite his excellent size, he doesn’t utilize his strength well off the snap. Many regard these traits as being coachable, and Green is a guy who could start early on in his NFL career if given the opportunity.

Davis arrived at Iowa as an oversized defensive lineman without a defined role in Norm Parker’s defense. The Hawkeyes traditionally ran a four-man front and rarely substituted, meaning Davis spent most of his first few years watching from the sidelines and remaking his body in the weight room. When he finally earned a spot on the starting defense in 2013, Davis became a force, recording 42 tackles, four tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. As a result, he was named to the watch lists for the Bednarik, Lombardi, Outland and Nagurski awards.

As with every prospect, Davis comes with some concerns. After Norm Parker retired and was replaced by Phil Parker (no relation), Iowa’s limited-substitution policy was lifted. As a result, the Hawkeyes pulled Davis in certain passing situations, suggesting that he may not have as much pass rushing potential as his metrics imply. Furthermore, Davis’ motor may not always run at its maximum, a problem for many players of his size.

Davis finished his college career with 94 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. He also knocked down a pass during his redshirt junior season. Davis ran the 40-yard dash in 5.07 seconds, the 3-cone drill in 7.91 seconds and the 20-yard shuttle in 4.47 seconds. His combine numbers weren’t among the best at his position, but he did perform well. He also had a 33-inch vertical leap and a 103-inch broad jump.