Ranking dead last in the NFL in rush defense is no accomplishment. Is it possible another second-year linebacker could help the Detroit Lions?
Jarrad Davis isn’t the only Detroit Lions linebacker with a year under his belt. The other, taken in the same draft, was Jalen Reeves-Maybin.
Unlike his first round counterpart, Reeves-Maybin was a fourth-round pick. A shoulder injury caused him to fall in the 2017 draft.
Instincts and quickness are traits that jump off the screen. His speed allows him to beat blockers and chase down ball carriers with ease. At times he can get lost, but overall his coverage skills are a strength.
Coming up with the tackle is an entirely different conversation, as he struggles finishing plays. If blockers get on him, he’s taken out of the play.
So what about Reeves-Maybin would change how the Lions defend against their opponents?
Well, their issues of defending the run are obvious. A huge reason is the failure of the linebackers to make plays. These plays are missed completely because of getting blocked too easily or not flowing to the assigned hole at all.
Christian Jones and fellow starting inside linebacker Davis have been average, to say the least. Both lack great coverage ability and get blocked too easily. They are rarely in the right position to make the play, perhaps because of the system.
With Reeves-Maybin inserted over Jones, a lot of the issues the Detroit Lions are having could be slightly alleviated. Davis isn’t losing his starting role and could turn a corner if he can become more consistent.
It’s worth trying given the fact his abilities are much needed and lacking in his teammates. As the strongest linebacker in coverage and pursuit, I think he would give the defense a huge boost. His snaps should continue to increase as the season goes on.