DE Davin Vann Is Looking to Increase His Draft Stock & Grow as a Leader

Defensive End Davin Vann is back to prove to the NFL scouts that he is better than the evaluation he received this offseason.

“I didn’t really like what round they had me going in and I felt like there was a lot more I could do before I left here,” Vann said. “The scouts said I was projected in the 5th or 6th round. Not where I wanted it to be.”

This past season Vann had 42 tackles (career high), 7 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks (career high). According to Vann, those numbers could have been higher, and the recipe is consistency.

“I just need to work on finishing,” said Vann. “My biggest issue right now is I kind of fade off during games. I don’t really stay consistent throughout the game.”

If Vann were to be invited to the 2025 NFL Combine next year, there’s no denying that he would turn heads with his measurables, but he’s wanting to give them more on tape in 2024 that turns their heads.

In choosing to return for his final year of eligibility, in a sense, Vann was also choosing to increase his leadership, alongside his draft stock.

Vann is the only returning starter on the Defensive Line. Fellow Defensive End Savion Jackson ran out of years eligibility, and Nose Tackle C.J. Clark transferred to Miami for his final year of eligibility.

At today’s first day of Spring Practice, Vann was the only Senior in the 1’s, joined by Juniors Brandon Cleveland (NT) and Travali Price (DE). In the 2’s, you had 2 Freshmen in Chase Bond (DE) and Isaiah Shirley (DE), and a Sophomore in DJ Jackson (NT).

(Defensive Ends Red Hibbler and Noah Potter are both Seniors, but weren’t practicing today. Potter was present, and working on rehabbing, and I didn’t see Hibbler.)

“It’s a little weird being the only older guy in the room. Only have 2 or 3 older guys on the defense as a whole,” said Vann. “It’s real weird, but it’s something new I’m looking forward to. The older guys on the defense set the tone, set the standard and lead by example.”

Prior to last season, Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren honored Vann with the #1 jersey, which is given to a player who exhibits elite work ethic in practice and training, while also leading his teammates. Throughout much of his life, Vann has probably led by example more often than he has led with his words, but he’s growing in using his voice.

“I think I’m more vocal now. I don’t really like to talk to much,” said Vann. “Things like this make me nervous, but I think getting comfortable stepping in front of the team and being able to talk to multiple people at once, that’s something I’ve grown in, and continue to grow in.”

Consistency and leadership skills are two ingredients any NFL team is looking for.