BY NICK LAWLER | Ball State Sports Link

On Jan. 7, Ball State wide receiver Antwan Davis announced he was entering the 2021 NFL Draft. 

Davis decided to forgo the additional year of eligibility offered by the NCAA and set his sights towards the highest level of football. 

Starting at Division II Lincoln University in Missouri, Davis transferred to Ball State and earned his scholarship and starting spot.

Despite leaving a year early, Davis was adamant on how much Ball State meant to him.

“This has sparked my dreams and career and put me in a great position to help further my life and further my career so I can’t thank Ball State enough for what it’s done for me,” Davis said.

Collecting offers to appear in both the Hula Bowl and the College Gridiron Showcase on the way, Davis finished the historic season strong, hauling in eight catches for 122 yards in the MAC Championship and Arizona Bowl.  

His hope is to find what was so special at Ball State in the NFL.

“I feel like the NFL represents just another opportunity to create another family, just like how Ball State football has always been a family to me.” 

With an opportunity to show out in front of NFL scouts, Davis took full advantage. 

“On the field, I was able to showcase my strong hands, my fluid and efficient route running,” Davis said. “I was able to show I can track any deep balls, any balls over the shoulder and be able to catch balls outside of my frame.”

At the College Gridiron Showcase, Davis gave such an impressive performance that Mitchell Wolfe of the Brawl Network declared: “Antwan Davis could be argued to be the overall individual winner of the showcase. Davis truly excelled in the on-field drills, displaying good quickness in and out of breaks, along with excellent hands and ability to catch outside his frame.” 

Soon after, he made a similar impression in Hawaii at the Hula Bowl. 

Media Scouting Consultant Jon-Michael Salter (@JonM_Salter) tweeted: “Word from the Hula Bowl is that Ball State WR Antwan Davis and LaTech OT/OG Donavaughn Campbell have been offensive standouts. Both great guys and very underrated talents. Made them some money this weekend.” 

Davis has been on a tear recently and is more ready than ever to make the transition to the league.  

He emphasized his reliability — something that certainly has caught on — as former teammate and current Ball State star safety Bryce Cosby reposted a video of Davis with the caption “Mr. Reliable.” 

While the physical aspects of Davis’ game have always been strong points, he also stated his dedication to learning the playbook from every receiver position and strengthening his versatility.  

Jokingly, he added that he is “not going to be one of those people that you have to worry about seeing a TMZ article about.” 

Making it into the NFL is never an easy task, but if anyone is ready to work for it, it is Davis. 

“I came from nothing,” Davis said. “I came from having zero D1 offers, playing D2, working my way up. Once I got my mindset down, focused and kept God first, everything started to work out. I just always kept that mindset I’m going to be the best, no matter what.” 

Hidden gems do not always shine, but Davis is out to prove he can shine brighter than anyone else.