5:38 PM: Howie Roseman told reporters this week that the franchise’s mantra when it comes to player development is draft, develop, and sign – reward players for representing the team the right way.
Jordan Davis took a big step toward that third pillar in the offseason when the team opted to utilize the fifth-year option on the 2022 first-round pick. The massive defensive tackle elevated his game in the playoffs, registering a PFF grade of 80 or more in three of the four postseason contests, including the Super Bowl. The numbers match as he produced two sacks, two tackles for loss, four QB hits and pressures, and a pass deflection in the run to the Super Bowl.
A big key was Davis shedding weight last season. Now, his confidence is brimming. He took the podium for a press conference after practice on Thursday and asked if everyone wanted to see his svelte physique. He’s lost 26 pounds, reporting for Training Camp at 330 – the lightest he’s been since a sophomore at Georgia.
“My role is bigger. What’s expected of me is greater. Obviously, you have to change and adapt,” Davis said. “I’m just glad I’m at this place right now and I can hit the ground running.
“I just want to be the best for the team and, not only for the team, but for my brothers.”
Davis played 37 percent of the snaps last season, but the team wants him on the field more in 2025. And to do that, Davis has to affect the quarterback as well as anchor against the run by putting his rare size and athletic profile – he earned a perfect 10 on the Relative Athletic Score at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine – into action.
“I don’t want to be a one-trick pony,” Davis said.
On the second play of team drills Wednesday, Davis’ get-off allowed him to muddy the pocket, forcing quarterback Jalen Hurts to hold the ball and go in another direction.
Davis may be leaner, but he “felt like I got stronger in the offseason. That was a big emphasis.” He says he’s got greater focus, more energy, and it takes longer for the heat to affect him.
“It’s been a long time coming,” he added. “Not just for football, but for life. I wanted to make these changes because they’re absolutely necessary.” – Chris McPherson