3 Commanders players already benefitting from Dan Quinn's presence
By Dean Jones
Jamin Davis - Commanders LB
Jamin Davis boasts some outstanding physical traits. His production was solid if not spectacular over his first three seasons with the Washington Commanders. Solid isn't going to cut it under the new regime, so it's a huge campaign upcoming for the player in 2024.
One could argue Davis was hung out to dry by the previous coaching staff. The former first-round selection was the only significant investment made in the linebacking corps throughout Ron Rivera's four-year tenure. This asked a lot and tasked him with responsibilities he wasn't suited for.
Dan Quinn is changing that. Adam Peters did his part by giving the defensive second-level a significant boost this offseason. Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner have the makings of a prolific tandem. Jordan Magee is a rookie with potential. Depth also looks much-improved thanks to the signings of Mykal Walker and Anthony Pittman.
This gives Quinn a chance to get creative with Davis. He's still getting plenty of reps at linebacker over early workouts. The Commanders are also utilizing him as a stand-up edge rusher and even as a 4-3 defensive end according to those in attendance. The possibilities are endless with the Kentucky product.
Davis' athleticism and explosiveness could be a difference-maker for the Commanders in 2024. The coaching staff believes in his capabilities despite the franchise refusing to trigger his fifth-year option. This extra motivation to get a longer-term financial commitment from Washington should be all he needs to finally put together an outstanding campaign.
The jury is still out on that, but Davis is in the best possible hands next season and potentially beyond. If Quinn has the key that unlocks his genuine promise, it's all systems go.
Much like the situation with Emmnanuel Forbes, Davis was not used properly by those in positions of power previously. That's not a mistake Quinn plans to make.