Ranking 5 best draft picks of Ron Rivera’s tenure with Commanders
By Dean Jones
Jamin Davis – Commanders LB
- Round No. 1 (Pick No. 19) | 2021 NFL Draft
When the Washington Commanders picked up Jamin Davis at No. 19 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, it was seen as a coup. The prospect had the athletic attributes to go much higher, but positional importance saw him drop to a level where those in power felt like it was a risk worth taking.
Regardless of where prospects are picked, being a first-round selection comes with additional expectations. Davis has found it difficult to meet this more often than not, but his growth last season was encouraging overall, and a solid foundation from which to build this time around.
The Commanders are expecting a lot from Davis in Year 3. The one-time Kentucky star must be dominant with so many questions surrounding the linebacking depth, although it would be a surprise if Ron Rivera didn’t bolster the defensive second level with the latest batch of college recruits at some stage.
Davis has tremendous instincts and boasts the straight-line speed needed to get to the contact point quickly. There are some issues regarding gap discipline against the run that need work and the player’s ability in coverage should also improve, but there remains hope he can become what Washington hoped for with another strong offseason.
Anything less would be a major disappointment. One that would give the Commanders another tough decision surrounding a fifth-year option.