Akeem Davis-Gaither (Appalachian St.) - 2020 NFL Draft Pick #107 by CIN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Akeem Davis-Gaither: Pre-Draft Analysis (2020 NFL Draft)
Akeem Davis-Gaither, a standout linebacker from Appalachian State, entered the 2020 NFL Draft with a reputation for his athleticism and playmaking ability. Below is a summary of his pre-draft analysis:
Strengths:
- Versatile Skill Set: Davis-Gaither demonstrated the ability to play both inside and outside linebacker positions, showcasing his versatility.
- Speed and Agility: He possesses excellent speed and quickness, allowing him to cover ground rapidly and make plays sideline-to-sideline.
- Instincts: His football IQ is notable, with a keen ability to read plays and react quickly, making him effective in both coverage and run support.
- Tackling: Davis-Gaither is a sure tackler, often wrapping up ball carriers effectively and minimizing yards after contact.
Weaknesses:
- Size: At 6'1" and around 225 pounds, there were concerns about his size and physicality when matched up against larger NFL running backs and tight ends.
- Experience Against Top Competition: Playing at Appalachian State, he faced less competition than some of his peers from Power 5 conferences, which raised questions about his performance against elite talent.
Overall Assessment:
Akeem Davis-Gaither was viewed as a dynamic linebacker prospect with the potential to contribute immediately on special teams and gradually develop into a starting role in the NFL. His blend of speed, coverage skills, and instincts made him an appealing option for teams looking to enhance their linebacker corps.