Here’s my question: would JD be at least a passable LB under a new DC and in a different defense that uses his abilities to better advantage? That assumes the Lions will have a new Dc and a different defense of course, which I think is likely. But we’ve seen other guys like Van Noy suck here and go on to play much better elsewhere, so if can Davis be a better player under a different DC and different defense elsewhere then why not keep him here? At least maybe through TC, if there is a TC in 2021.
Here’s my thinking: we know that roster changes are a comin’, right? And some Lions players are certainly going to get cut, Tavai for one IMHO. Big but slow probably isn’t going to cut it here any more. But JD isn’t slow, maybe not the brightest guy out there but what if you put him in a different role where he doesn’t have to read and react as much, IOW simplify it for him.
I don’t know that the Lions are going to have that much money to spend in FA, and at this point they only have 5 draft picks. So, to some extent they need to find ways to make guys that are on the roster now more competitive; I don’t see them as able to completely overhaul the roster in one off-season, and if they can maybe get more out of some of the guys they got now then that’s gotta be good, right?
I like Davis and I hope we find a way to keep him. But at what cost is the question.
A few things happened with Van Noy. For one they actually put him on the field. But secondly, they surrounded him with talent so it masks some of his weaknesses. I’ve never understood why Van Noy gained so much weight as soon as he got to the NFL. Did anyone else notice it?
I think he’s one of our better linebackers which doesn’t say much. I’d be interested in retaining him as one less hole on D. He is ok against run and at blitzing. Really struggles in coverage.
We need to replace probably our entire LB corp. Unless we keep our only capable one, Collins. But his scheme knowledge benefit won’t be a benefit and he’s a year older. Does Jones or Tavai have a starting role next season? Heck no.
I think Davis could play 4-3 SAM on non-passing downs and be a situational rusher off the edge. But I’m not going to pay very much to experiment. I know he can’t cover and I know he has poor instincts. I know he isn’t a force against the inside run and can’t shed blocks. But he is fast downhill and can actually be a knock back tackler at times. If he’s kept it has to be with knowing those things going in. We need two impact LB’s out of this draft and probably another FA starter.
If Davis is willing to be paid as our #4 guy or worse, then I’m not opposed to it. He’s always had a great attitude, and is very aggressive with athletic traits, but he comes with absolute limitations in a league trying to go to LB’s that can hold up against the run and cover like an extra Safety.
As long as the contract is reasonable. He’s fast and he can lay the wood. He’ll never be a stud, but he would look better with a more talented group. I really think a good defensive line could help him out.
I had this same conversation with a friend. He’s got some speed and has shown some skills rushing the passer in the past. Even had 6 sacks in 2018.
He’s horrible in coverage, and can’t diagnose running plays. His instincts as an inside linebacker are bad. But, he has straight line speed and can hit. Patricia had no idea how to use him. He should also be a monster on special teams.
I used to think Jarrad was bringing the group down. Now I’m beginning to think maybe it’s the other way around to some extent.
If it’s Saleh that becomes HC, he’s noted for simplifying the defenses for the players. Think less, execute faster. If the game can be simplified for Davis, his quickness might capitalized. He’s not worth a franchise tag or anything, but if he’s willing to come back and is not forced to read and react, it could work.
