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Young linebackers Davis and Reeves-Maybin impress Lions

FAYETTEVILLE, AR - NOVEMBER 5: Jarrad Davis #40 of the Florida Gators warming up before a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Razorback Stadium on November 5, 2016 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Gators 31-10. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

  • Lions.com reporter Tim Twentyman pointed out Tuesday that Detroit Lions rookie linebackers Jarrad Davis and Jalen Reeves-Maybin have both impressed the coaching staff during minicamp and OTA’s. Davis will be the de facto starter at Mike linebacker while Reeves-Maybin is competing for a role on the defense this year.
  • According to Twentyman, Jarrad Davis is already calling the teams defense. This is great for Davis, who will bring a lot of versatility and will be asked to do a multitude of tasks. Davis ranked third among SEC draft-eligible linebackers in pass-rush productivity at 20.0. He also gives the Lions matchup flexibility in coverage as he can cover tight ends and slot receivers deep. In his career at Florida he gave up just one catch over 20 yards downfield.
  • Twentyman also pointed out that Reeves-Maybin’s speed and cover ability really stuck out during OTAs and believes that he will have a chance to earn significant playing time this year as a rookie. In college, Reeves-Maybin also showed he can be effective against the run, and in 2015 he ranked 23rd among 401 qualified FBS linebackers with 55 run stops.

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