Is Bob Quinn’s plan for the Detroit Lions working? Comparing 2015 to 2019

Detroit Lions Linebackers

Then:

De’Andre Levy was still technically on the roster but did not play in 2015. Tahir Whitehead, Stephen Tullock, and Josh Bynes made up the men who started the most games under former defensive coordinator, Teryl Austin. Kyle Van Noy, Travis Lewis, Phillip Hunt, and Brandon Copeland rounded out the second level.

Now:

Jarrad Davis, rookie Jahlani Tavai, Devon Kennard, and Chrisitan Jones get most of the starting reps currently. Steve Longa and Jaylen Reeves-Maybin are the reserves and special teams players.

Verdict: Better

Davis is a great but inconsistent athlete, Tavai seems like he can handle the inside, and Kennard is a capable Jack linebacker, while Jones is a more ideal backup or rotational player. The coverage has been bad and they don’t rush the passer very well when called upon.

The unit lacks explosion and consistent play-making. Davis hasn’t always performed well inside but has made progress as an edge rusher but has always flashed ability there going back to his time at Florida. Tavai is getting better and looks like a keeper at Mike. Kennard is steady and leads the unit in sacks and is the best performer, here.

So, while the athletes are better the current group just isn’t getting things done despite relative good health all season. Davis did miss a couple of early games but that has not been the big problem for the unit. No player is the ideal candidate for this defense which relies on multi-talented linebackers who can cover, tackle, and rush to shut teams down.

This unit has been built using first, second, and fourth-round picks plus some free agent dollars over the last several years and is still an underperforming position for the resources used. Davis, the first-round selection flashes very good games but during many contests grades as the lowest-rated defender at his position…in the entire NFL.