Packers Release LB and Sign Former Commanders First-Round Starter
Before their pivotal Week 9 game against the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers made a number of roster announcements.
Jamin Davis, a former starting linebacker for the Washington Commanders, has joined the Packers’ practice squad, adding an intriguing new defense. Green Bay cut LB Chris Russell off their PS to make place for Davis.
During his three or more seasons with the Commanders, Davis played in 50 games, starting 36 of them, after Washington selected him 19th overall in the 2021 NFL draft. It wouldn’t be shocking to see Davis added to Green Bay’s active roster shortly given his background.
An Overview of the New Packers Signee, LB Davis, Jamin
Davis, a former great at the University of Kentucky, was a highly anticipated prospect when he joined the league. Calling him a bust is unfair, but it’s fair to say that he fell short of expectations.
Davis participated in all 16 games during his rookie campaign with Washington in 2021 and earned 76 total tackles, 48 of which were solo. Davis had to adjust to the NFL level despite having strong tackling numbers, particularly in terms of reading plays and responding fast in Washington’s defensive systems. In comparison to other first-round linebackers, he only had 1.0 sacks that season, which made some people doubt his early impact.
However, under new head coach Dan Quinn, there were significant changes in the 2024 campaign.
The team’s new coaching staff tried to utilize Davis’ pass-rushing ability by moving him from linebacker to defensive end, but the move proved difficult. He only managed 13 total tackles without recording a sack in his five games this season. Midway through the season, Washington reorganized its squad, which resulted in his dismissal due to his decreased output and positional adjustment. In 50 games during his time at Washington, Davis recorded 282 tackles, seven sacks, six passes defended, and one interception.
Quinn had nothing but praise for Davis, even after the Commanders discharged him. According to USA Today, Quinn remarked upon the LB’s discharge, “What a good teammate, Jamin.” He is someone we will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on and rooting for because sometimes good things come after the bad. He put forth a lot of effort when he was here.
Davis Will Join the Dominant, Resurgent Packers Defense
With a 6-2 record through their first eight games, the Packers have had an outstanding start to the 2024 season. Under first-year defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, their defense has recovered, which has been a major factor in their success.
As one of the stronger mid-tier pass defenses this season, Green Bay’s pass defense has held opponents to 1,885 passing yards and an average of 7.3 yards per attempt. They have restricted opponents to 893 running yards on the ground, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. Although they are not currently among the best, their run defense is a reasonably strong team.
The defensive line has been the unit’s undisputed strength. With 21.o sacks thus far, which is presently eighth in the NFL, the Packers have been applying constant pressure on the quarterback. Green Bay is playing well on both sides of the ball and giving up 21.3 points per game, which is 11th in the NFL.
Steady defense will be more crucial than ever because of the impending big divisional game against the Lions.
He will now start again in Green Bay.
