For as good as the Washington Commanders defensive line is, their linebackers have left something to be desired.
Pro Football Focus ranked the Commanders' linebacker unit as the 25th in the NFL. Washington's defensive line was ranked 3rd in the NFL by PFF.
For Washington's linebacker unit to improve, PFF said they'd need former first-round pick Jamin Davis to continue his upward trajectory.
"The Commanders are another team waiting for a former first-round pick to break out," PFF writes. "Jamin Davis struggled during his rookie season in 2021 but trended upward to a 62.9 overall grade last season. He improved as the year progressed and could be an X-factor for a potentially excellent defense."
Davis, the former No. 19 pick in the 2021 draft, led Washington with 104 tackles. He also led the Commanders' linebackers in sacks (3) and tackles for loss (9).
Washington could get a boost after signing former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Cody Barton to a one-year deal in the offseason. Barton was second on Seattle in tackles with 136 in 2022. The 26-year-old linebacker also had two sacks and two interceptions in his final season with Seattle. PFF graded Barton at 63.7 in 2022.
Linebackers David Mayo and Khaleke Hudson also figure to contribute to a unit that Washington needs to improve. But even if they step up, PFF believes Davis' growth will be the deciding factor for the Commanders' linebackers.
"This unit’s success will almost solely depend on Davis' progress," PFF writes.
If Davis plays well in the upcoming campaign, he could be due for a contract extension this time a year from now.
More must-reads: