The New York Jets, on paper, appear to have one heck of a defense. The team added defensive tackle Leonard Williams in the draft to an already dominant unit that includes Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson. General manager Mike Maccagnan spent like gangbusters in free agency to bring back cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie. Safety Calvin Pryor, last year's first-rounder, is expected to take a leap in his second season while linebacker Quinton Coples continues his steady production.
But lost in this gathering of former first-round picks and All-Pro talent is fourth-year linebacker Demario Davis. A 2012 third-rounder, Davis doesn't share the same pedigree as some of his more heralded teammates, but he does share their ability.
Davis racked up 116 tackles last year (second on the team behind David Harris) to go along with 3.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries. But beyond the numbers, Davis also developed into a vocal team leader. Pro Football Focus ranked him 15th out of 60 inside linebackers due to his superior run stopping abilities and speed. If he can improve his coverage skills and get a few more opportunities to rush the passer, Jets fans could be looking at a bona fide breakout candidate for 2015.
"This is a big season for Davis, who can become a free agent afterwards," Brian Costello of the New York Post wrote. "It is hard to imagine the Jets allowing Davis to leave unless he is asking for a ridiculous contract.
"Davis figures to pick up where he left off last season as a huge presence in the middle for Todd Bowles' defense. Davis also has the versatility to move outside if the Jets go to a 4-3 look at times, which Bowles said they will do. Davis is an underrated pass rusher. If Bowles creates some blitz packages for Davis and moves him outside at times, his sack numbers could jump."
Jets fans are eager for a winning season after four straight years failing to finish above .500. While they still possess significant quarterback questions (Geno Smith's replacement could be coming as soon as 2016), the team's defense will give them a fighting chance this year. Davis could be a big part of that.
