Demario Davis

Career StatsB+

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		227	1537	45.0	4
2025		17	143	0.5	0
2024		16	136	2.0	1
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Jets secured solid value by locking up Demario Davis at $11M AAV, landing what amounts to a fair deal with slight upside for an above-average linebacker entering his prime years. Davis has consistently delivered reliable production as a three-down defender who can cover ground in the middle of the field, making this contract reasonable compensation for a player who projects as a steady starter but not quite an elite impact piece. At 31, he's entering the back half of his career, but linebackers often maintain their effectiveness into their mid-thirties, especially those like Davis who rely more on football IQ than pure athleticism. The two-year commitment with $15M guaranteed provides manageable risk while giving the Jets flexibility to reassess after the 2025 season, avoiding the long-term pitfalls that often accompany veteran linebacker deals. This B- CVI reflects a sensible investment in a dependable defensive anchor who should help stabilize New York's linebacker corps without breaking the bank or creating future salary cap complications.

Performance Analysis

Demario Davis grades as an above-average starter among NFL linebackers — an above-average player at the position. His strongest area is tackles for loss at 0.94 (well above the NFL average of 0.40), ranking as elite for the position. Sack production, at 0.03 compared to an NFL average of 0.23, is where he falls short relative to the position. His tackle volume indicates a run-stuffing, every-down role with limited pass-rush production. With 227 career games, there is a large sample size backing this grade.

Current Sentiment

Demario Davis enters the 2026 season riding a wave of positive sentiment after voluntarily returning to the New York Jets for a third stint, publicly describing the decision as a 'no-brainer' and citing unfinished business with the franchise. At 36 years old with 14 years of NFL experience, Davis is widely regarded as a consummate professional and locker-room leader whose intangible value extends well beyond his statistical production. Media coverage has been notably warm, framing his return as a story of loyalty and purpose rather than a veteran simply chasing a roster spot. His parallel pursuit of a broadcasting career, as highlighted by The Athletic, adds a layer of narrative interest and suggests a player managing his transition thoughtfully, which tends to generate favorable press. While questions about age-related decline and his role in a rebuilding Jets defense are legitimate, the current media and fan perception is decidedly positive, with Davis viewed as a stabilizing veteran presence on a young and evolving roster.