Washington Football Team: Analyzing 2021 first-round pick LB Jamin Davis

Team Fit

Overall, Davis is a high-upside, versatile linebacker with tantalizing short-range and long-range ability. Upon further study, it’s easy to see why the Washington Football Team chose to select him over other linebacker prospects like Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Nick Bolton, and Baron Browning. But how does he fit Washington’s defense?

For now, the Washington Football Team’s starters likely project to be Jon Bostic, Cole Holcomb, and Jamin Davis. Among that group, Davis likely slots into the WILL linebacker role. WILL linebackers often specialize more in coverage, and Davis’ profile, with his lean frame and easy movement skills, translates well into that role.

Nevertheless, Davis himself has the makings of a three-down linebacker alongside his fellow starters, and he should have some versatility across the second level. At Kentucky, he frequently lined up in different spots, and he has the athleticism and length to rotate into the slot if needed. His coverage upside is immense, and that’s something Washington needed this offseason.

Davis’ athleticism and play style makes him an excellent fit for Ron Rivera’s 4-3 scheme, and playing behind a defensive line that consists of Chase Young, Montez Sweat, Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and Matt Ioannidis will allow him to play faster, with more confidence, and with more consistent speed.

Ideally, that line will, more often than not, keep things clean in the second level, which will allow Davis to use his athletic traits unimpeded.