Jamin Davis began his professional career with so much promise. Early production was diminished by a franchise transformation, which ultimately led him to free agency. Fortunately, the former first round pick has found a new home in the NFL.
The former Kentucky linebacker has signed with the New York Jets this offseason, the organization shared on Wednesday.
Technically, Davis was re-signed by the Jets. New York claimed Davis off waivers on New Year’s Eve, but never appeared in a game in a green and white uniform. They were his third different employer in 2024. Washington let him go after five games, then he played in four for the Vikings before landing with the Jets.
An exceptional athlete from South Georgia, in his first season as a Kentucky starting linebacker, he tallied 102 tackles, 4 TFLS, and three interceptions during the shortened 2020 season. It was surprising when he declared for the NFL Draft, until he tested off the charts to rise up all the way to the No. 19 overall pick.
By his second season in Washington, he was a 15-game starter and the team’s leading tackler. He was shy of 100 tackles in 2023, but still a staple of the defense in what would be Ron Rivera’s last season. Washington was significantly better last fall under Dan Quinn’s leadership (and new ownership), albeit without Davis contributing. They moved him to Edge in the final year of his rookie contract and when that didn’t work out right away, he was let go.
Hopefully, Davis can find some stability in an unstable organization. This offseason signing can buoy his career, but only if he makes the most of it.
Where Other Former Kentucky Wildcats Landed
Another member of Kentucky’s 2021 NFL Draft class, Landon Young, has survived through his rookie deal. The New Orleans Saints showed how much they valued the versatile rotational offensive lineman by re-signing him to a one-year deal. Young has appeared in 56 games and started in 12. He’s been used at both tackle spots, left guard, and on occasion, right guard.
Brandin Echols was one of the first Kentucky free agents to find a new home, signing with the Steelers this offseason. Za’Darius Smith is one of the best available free agents. The veteran pass-rusher was released by the Lions, but they could re-negotiate his deal and bring him back in 2025.
