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Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: LSU vs. Florida

By Erik Schlitt

Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Bryan Cox (94) in the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive lineman Bryan Cox (94) in the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /
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Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40). Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Florida Gators linebacker Jarrad Davis (40). Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Jarrad Davis
Senior
#40
Outside Linebacker
6’1″, 240

Early Draft Projection = Top 50

A two-year starter, Davis has experience at both linebacker spots (Will and Mike) in Florida’s 4-2-5 system. So far this season, Davis has built on a solid junior campaign, and was recently named to PFF’s team of the week. PFF pointed out that in their system, Davis is their top graded linebacker in the nation (91.2 grade).

Biggest Strengths:

  • Powerful hitter
  • Playing speed and burst
  • Three-down linebacker

Biggest Weaknesses:

  • Body control
  • Over-aggressiveness leads to missed tackles
  • Discipline

Now for the bad news: You won’t see him play versus LSU because of an ankle injury. This injury won’t likely impact his draft status as this is likely only a short-term issue.

Like LSU’s Beckwith above, Davis is a position flexible linebacker who doesn’t need to leave the field regardless of formation. Davis has a higher draft grade than Beckwith right now because his playing speed is much faster. If the Lions have concerns about Levy’s long-term prognosis, Davis is a player who could step into the Lions Will linebacker position on day one.

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