Kaden Davis (born September 25, 1998) is an American football wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Northwest Missouri State.
Early life
Davis lettered at Ellsworth High School in Ellsworth, Kansas, where he played tight end, linebacker, and defensive back. As a senior, Davis caught 857 yards and 15 touchdowns and was selected to play in the 2017 Kansas Shrine All-Star Bowl, where he was Ellsworth's first selection in 25 years. Despite the performance, Kaden was a zero-star recruit who received not a single NCAA Division I scholarship, although Kansas State offered him a walk-on spot in track.
Davis first attended Butler Community College and primarily served as a returner. He was offered a walk-on spot at Kansas State, but chose a full-ride scholarship and an immediate starting position at Northwest Missouri State, a NCAA Division II school. As a senior, Davis led the team with 10 touchdowns on 703 yards receiving, helping the team to a semifinal playoff appearance and earning all-conference honors.
Davis earned an invitation to the Shrine Bowl, where he received publicity for playing while dressed up as Joker from The Dark Knight.
Professional career
Denver Broncos
Davis went undrafted and was invited to the Denver Broncos training camp, successfully being signed to the team on May 1, 2022. He was cut on August 16, 2022. Davis was resigned to the team's practice squad on November 10, 2022. He was released after the end of the season.
Michigan Panthers
On May 9, 2023, Davis was signed by the Michigan Panthers of the USFL. He was an instant contributor for Michigan, contributing on special teams as well as having a major role in their offense. Davis totaled 83 receiving yards, 333 return yards, and two touchdowns, totaling 416 all-purpose yards in five games.
Arizona Cardinals
On July 25, 2023, Davis was signed to the active roster for the Arizona Cardinals. He was waived on August 29, 2023 and re-signed to the practice squad.