Social media can be an incredibly valuable resource, but unless you know which sources to trust, it can lead you down a rabbit hole of broad speculations and inaccurate information.
This morning, an individual on Twitter who presents themselves as “NFL Aficionado” stated that Detroit Lions linebacker Jarrad Davis had “fallen out of favor with Matt Patricia’s coaching staff” and was “available via trade”.
Several Lions fans reached out to Lions Wire editors for confirmation of this claim.
Initially, we were confused by the suggestion as we had heard nothing to suggest the idea had any merit. Furthermore, Lions coaches have consistently only had positive things to say about Davis, both on and off the record, adding more conflicting evidence to the situation.
Then, as they did with the Matthew Stafford trade rumors, the team reached out to a small group of local reporters and shut the door on the rumor, calling it “100% False”.
Was told the Jarrad Davis trade rumors are "100% False."
— kyle meinke (@kmeinke) March 25, 2020
For those who've asked: The Jarrad Davis trade rumor is 100% false. No reason to ask about it anymore. He will be a Lion this fall, guaranteed.
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) March 25, 2020
Just to be clear, I've been told any rumors for the Lions trading Jarrad Davis are "100 percent false." It's not happening.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) March 25, 2020
As others tweeted, the team jumped out ahead of Davis trade speculation to squash it. The internet is a scary place. Don't click on any of those free gift card banner ads while you're looking for the next rumor.
— Justin Rogers (@Justin_Rogers) March 25, 2020
That’s a swift and emphatic denial, directly from the Lions.
Accurate information can come from a lot of sources, and everyone can make a mistake, but the Davis trade rumor offers fans a reminder to be careful who you trust.