Demario Davis
Summary
Demario Davis was selected in Round 3 (#77 Overall) in the 2012 Draft out of Arkansas State University. Davis is a standout middle linebacker whose strengths lie in his tackling range, football intelligence, versatility, durability, and leadership. His weaknesses are relatively minor in comparison—mainly fine‑tuning coverage skills, minimizing over‑pursuit, and adapting as a veteran in a young‑man’s game. All told, he remains a valuable defensive asset who can impact games in multiple ways.
Strengths
Sideline‑to‑sideline speed and tackling range: Davis consistently ranks among the leaders in tackles, showing the ability to pursue from sideline to sideline and fill run gaps. SI
High football IQ & positional awareness: Evaluators praise his “awareness” and ability to diagnose plays, drop into coverage, and adjust in‑game. His leadership and consistency are well documented.
Versatility in both run and pass defense: He is capable both at stopping the run and in coverage, able to match up with tight ends or running backs in space. SI
Durability & consistency: Davis has been remarkably reliable for most of his career. He rarely misses games and has been a key starter across multiple seasons.
Leadership and intangibles: Beyond on‑field production, Davis is considered a locker‑room leader and earned the Bart Starr Award for character and leadership.
Weaknesses
Occasional over‑pursuit and being out of position: Early in his career, Davis’s speed sometimes caused him to overrun his gap or beat a blocker too early, getting off balance. Bleacher Report
Coverage consistency vs elite receivers: While versatile, there have been moments where Davis struggled in man coverage against fast, agile receivers or tight ends releasing into space. New York Jets
Limited elite pass‑rush production for his position: Although effective in many ways, Davis is not typically viewed as a pure elite edge pass rusher; his sack totals are solid but not among the highest for the position. SI
Age / career‑longevity considerations: Being a veteran linebacker, there is always a watch on his athletic decline or speed drop‑off relative to younger players.
Fit & Outlook
Davis fits extremely well in defenses that value athletic linebackers who can handle multiple responsibilities: stop the run, cover space, and be a defensive leader. With the Saints, he has been the anchor of the linebacking unit and a key contributor to their defensive success. Looking ahead, provided he maintains his health and adapts to the physical demands of the position, Davis is positioned to continue being a high‑impact starter. His floor remains that of a reliable, productive linebacker; his ceiling is being among the very best in his role if he continues to refine his craft and physical conditioning.