In hindsight, it seems the Detroit Lions dodged a major bullet with their first round selection in 2017. Here’s why luck had nothing to do with it.
It wasn’t all smiles when general manager Bob Quinn and company made the choice to select linebacker Jarrad Davis 21st overall in last season’s NFL draft. Ultimately, it appears the Detroit Lions chose the right guy to lead their defense.
There was major shock seeing Reuben Foster not get selected after a draft day fall due to off-field issues. Unfortunately for the former Alabama star, those issues have continued.
Not even lasting two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, the 31st selection overall got cut late last week in connection to yet another domestic abuse accusation. The Washington Redskins claimed him on Tuesday.
Lucky for the Lions, Davis has been as clean as a whistle. As far as production, he’s got the edge this year.
Last season, Foster bested all rookie linebackers despite missing six games to injury. His play took a huge step back following a two game suspension after violating the NFL personal conduct policy in relation to drugs and guns. He missed another three contests with a hamstring strain.
All in all, it looks like a win for Detroit if we’re talking about Davis vs. Foster. The jury is still out on the final outcome of each player’s career but my money is on the alumnus from Florida.
Scouting talent is one thing, it’s another to scout character. This is a prime example of when doing the right thing worked out. A pretty atypical result for the Lions seeing how snakebite they are.
Davis has his hang-ups but his demeanor and intangibles are special. If he can get out of his own way, he has the physical tools to turn into a number one linebacker.
Such a shame for Foster really. He’s the better talent, but his shenanigans can’t be dismissed and his issues have him waiting on the Commissioner’s Exempt List.
Both have high expectations to hold up the middle of their respective defenses. Their futures are unknown. For the moment, the Detroit Lions aren’t the ones ruing the day. How ironic.