Linebacker remains a big point of conversation for the Cincinnati Bengals ahead of the 2020 NFL draft, hence one noteworthy meet with a prospect like Appalachian State’s Akeem Davis-Gaither.
That’s far from the only notable meet the Bengals will have with linebackers before the draft and now we know another courtesy of Draft Wire’s Justin Melo — California’s Evan Weaver.
Weaver, who blew up for 100-plus tackles last year, checked in at 6’2″ and 237 pounds at the combine. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote the following:
“Rambunctious tackle sponge and perennial grudge holder who lives to prove people wrong. Weaver certainly doesn’t look the part of All-American inside ‘backer in the uniform, but he lives for football and plays every snap with urgency. He can be patient but has the instincts and play-recognition skills to beat blockers to the spot. He is slow-twitch, and there is no question that his athletic limitations will be harder to disguise against NFL competition. A lack of traits could limit his upside, but he has the intangibles and toughness to compete as a backup box banger in a 3-4 alignment.”
Weaver grades around the developmental area on that particular scale but it’s not hard to see why the Bengals might like him. A special teams boost and good depth for a 3-4 look is a big need for the team right now.
Call it another name to keep in mind, especially into Day 3 of the draft alongside a certain Auburn tight end.
