Marlon Davidson missed a majority of his rookie season dealing with multiple injuries and stints on the COVID-19 list, but reports surfaced this offseason that he was in a better place mentally and physically coming into training camp this year compared to last. Those reports seemed accurate after his first preseason game against the Titans.
The defense left plenty on tape for the staff to get a thorough assessment, and Davidson was a bright spot. He constantly penetrated the Tennessee second-string offensive line using his power and surprising athleticism. But unfortunately, the former second-round pick is already dealing with another injury. Though it seems to be a short-term issue, it will keep him out of at least the Dolphins preseason game.
Arthur Smith has shown to be a conservative coach when it comes to playing his starters in the preseason, a trend that continues to grow in popularity around the league. Smith didn’t start a number of players that I figured would surely play at least a couple of drives, particularly Kyle Pitts and Matt Hennessy. It is clear that Smith is taking no chances with Davidson’s recovery, which is encouraging because he’ll be an important part of this defensive line rotation.
Davidson will miss valuable snaps against the Dolphins offensive front in the team’s joint practices, but it is better to be safe than sorry in situations like these. If the reports of his improvements continue, there is no problem with resting the former Auburn Tiger.
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