Detroit Lions: Is Jarrad Davis the middle linebacker of the future?
Inconsistent play from second-year defender Jarrad Davis has raised doubts about his long-term future with the Detroit Lions. Where does he fit best?
A linebacker’s main responsibility is to rack up tackles. So far, Jarrad Davis isn’t living up to the potential the Detroit Lions have hoped for. Even more depressing, the number of plays he’s failed to make.
The flashes of talent give you a sense of comfort but then those feelings are dashed way too quickly with sloppy play. Consistency isn’t there, that only hurts his chances of sticking around beyond 2020.
The most aggravating part about Davis, missing tackles. Many times he’s using his arms, sometimes only one. It’s incredibly maddening.
Instincts and awareness aren’t as sharp as one would need to make big plays in the middle of a defense. Often times his hesitation and fear of loss lead to bigger plays happening as a result.
To the former first rounder’s credit, he can fly around the field. Even more impressive, he’s a banger, regularly taking on offensive lineman and shedding blocks.
Given his strengths and weaknesses, it appears the Lions should entertain moving Davis to the weak side. By the looks of things, this coaching staff is starting to figure that out.
The way of the league is most defenses playing nickel, meaning only two linebackers take the field. In those conditions, especially a 3-4 front, a great linebacker is paramount.
As of late, Christian Jones is routinely asked to handle more of the tougher reads in high traffic parts of the field while Davis is blitzing the quarterback and lining up in areas with lots of real estate to operate. Both show a decent knack in coverage.
At the end of the day, neither are really convincing at the MIKE spot. Jones is a better fit because of his strong tackling efficiency and superb vision.
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Sadly, time’s running out whether Jarrad Davis can be the Detroit Lions’ number one linebacker and take his game to the next level. His best chance of that is at the WILL position.