Jamin Davis (UK Athletics Photo)
Take a look at NFL mock draft selections and you will find Kentucky linebacker Jamin Davis listed as a “fast riser” projected by some to go to Washington at No. 19 in the first round or maybe the Cleveland Browns at No. 26. Various other teams also seem to have an interest in Davis, especially after his mind-boggling Pro Day workout numbers.
Obviously, Davis doesn’t know if he’ll go in the first round of the draft Thursday or one of the later rounds. However, there’s not a mock draft where he’s projected anywhere worse than the third round.
“It’s just the same as when I was playing here (at Kentucky). Outside noise, mock drafts … I don’t pay attention. They are nothing but a distraction,” Davis said. “I am just doing my best to stay grounded and doing the best I can and I will end up on somebody’s team.”
What about his rise in the draft ratings since UK’s season ended with him as the team’s leading tacklers and one of the best players in the SEC?
“Honestly I am guessing people are just starting to wake up. I couldn’t tell you. I am not doing anything special or pulling out any hat tricks,” Davis said. “Just being myself and everything is unfolding before my eyes.”
Even if he knew he was going to be a first-round pick, Davis would not attend the draft in Cleveland.
“The actual draft has always been a dream of mine,” Davis said. “If I got in that position I would want to be home with mom, dad, my brother, and sister. I never wanted to be a guy dressed up in a fancy suit walking across a stage. My dream is to be home with family and let it all unfold.”
Kentucky coach Mark Stoops told Davis to not get fancy and there was “no reason to try to be something you are not” during the draft process.
“I guess you could say my dream is happening before my eyes,” Davis said. “I got a chance to meet (Pittsburgh Steelers coach) Mike Tomlin. getting to do that is pretty cool. But I cannot say the mission is accomplished because there is always room for more. I can’t stop here.”
His former defensive coordinator at Kentucky, Matt House, is now the linebackers coach with the Kansas City Chiefs. Davis has talked to House and the Kansas City staff.
“It was pretty cool getting to see him again. That (getting drafted by Kansas City) would be pretty cool as well,” Davis said.
