Washington Football Team: Grades for each 2021 NFL Draft pick
Round 1: Jamin Davis, Linebacker, Kentucky
It was widely expected that the Washington Football Team would select a linebacker or offensive tackle in the first round. They went with the former and selected the linebacker that was actually their highest-rated defensive player this year – Jamin Davis.
That is a lofty ranking from the front office, and they were elated to see Davis there at the 19th overall pick. Is he worthy of the highest grade that we can bestow?
Coming out of high school, Davis was considered to be a three-star recruit and his options seemed limited. Kentucky gave the young man from Georgia a chance and that is all he needed. After a redshirt season, Davis became a rotational player for the Wildcats and a special teams contributor in 2018.
Related Story. Analyzing Jamin Davis' fit with the Washington Football Team. light
With some improvements in 2019, Davis was able to secure more playing. However, he was not the standout that would break out in 2020. The 2020 season became one major highlight reel and the scouts began to notice the talents that would make him a first-round selection.
Davis is likely to improve significantly in the coming years. Was he worthy of being selected 19th overall? If Washington could’ve traded down a few positions, it’s not out of the question to think he would’ve been there at that juncture.
Still, Washington can’t be faulted for taking Davis at 19, especially when the front office believed he was the best defensive player for 2020.
Verdict: This was a very good selection and Washington’s patience paid off on Thursday night. A trade down would’ve been nice, but there is always a risk with such trades.