Fourth-year linebacker Jamin Davis was one player who entered training on the Washington Commanders’ roster bubble. The 2021 first-round pick had been replaced at linebacker by Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu and is now working on becoming a full-time edge rusher.
It hasn’t been an easy transition for Davis, but changing positions in the NFL and expecting immediate results is unfair. To his credit, Davis has worked extensively with Washington’s assistant linebackers and pass rush specialist coach, Ryan Kerrigan, on the nuances of being a defensive end/edge rusher.
So, it was important for Davis to show signs of progress throughout training camp and the preseason. In the first preseason game against the New York Jets, Davis showed progress in setting the edge and defending the run.
But what about as a pass rusher?
In Saturday’s game against the Miami Dolphins, Davis flashed in a significant way, sacking Miami quarterback Mike White and forcing the fumble in the process.
Check it out:
sacked ✅
recovered ✅📺 #WASvsMIA @WUSA9 pic.twitter.com/E9QRJUkDd8
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 18, 2024
Here’s a closer look:
Jamin Davis Strip Sack & tosses Mike White into an OL pic.twitter.com/UeUOqqpP6z
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) August 18, 2024
After the play, cameras turned to Commanders head coach Dan Quinn and you could see the excitement on his face. He was thrilled for Davis.
One play doesn’t make or break a player, but Davis will make the 53-man roster and was likely making it all along. He’s shown progress and you don’t give up on athletic players like Davis.