4 linebackers Steelers should attempt to trade for following Devin Bush injury
By Tommy Jaggi
Jarrad Davis
Detroit Lions
Jarrad Davis has had an unusual start to his NFL career. After being the 21st overall pick by the Lions in the 2017 NFL Draft, Detriot had high hopes from the former Florida product. However, after being thrown into the fire as a rookie and asked to start 14 games, Davis fell flat.
Over his first three seasons in the league, Davis has earned overall grades of 52.8, 51.0, and 38.6 according to Pro Football Focus. However, much like Bud Dupree, Davis has taken a massive leap forward in year four.
Despite being in a more limited role on defense, Davis looks like the player the Lions had hoped he would be. Through Week 6, Davis has earned an overall grade of 81.1 (6th among all linebackers), and his coverage grade of 92.3 is the best in the league at his position.
It’s easy to find linebackers that just go downhill (i.e. Vince Williams), but the ones who can stay on the field on passing downs are rarer. Davis is in the final year of his rookie deal, and the Lions could be willing to ditch him for a mid-round draft choice. Because Detriot is probably going to lose him after the season anyway, this could be in the best interest of both teams.