Sen’Derrick Marks One of David Caldwell’s Best Moves

Being a general manager of an NFL team is a difficult job, and it’s even more difficult when you walk into a situation that requires a complete and systematic rebuild. David Caldwell walked into that exact situation less than 2 years ago. He inherited arguably the least talented roster in the NFL, and he had to look high and low to find upgrades at basically every position.

One of Caldwell’s low-key moves in his first offseason was signing former Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Sen’Derrick Marks to a “prove-it” deal. After a few disappointing seasons in Tennessee, Marks came in and immediately became the best interior pass rusher on the Jaguars. That may not be the most amazing accomplishment looking back at who was on the roster in 2013, but he performed well enough to earn a contract extension.

Marks has rewarded the Jaguars with an even better season in 2014. One of the few national outlets to take notice of Marks’ terrific play is Pro Football Focus.

"Marks’ -4.4 overall grade in 2013 may not standout, but his +10.5 grade as a pass rusher, ninth-best among all defensive tackles, certainly did…In 2014, with the security of a four-year contract, and being kept fresh by featuring on just 66.2% of defensive snaps, Marks has taken yet another step forward. Through eight games Marks has recorded four sacks and 23 total pressures for an improved 8.1 PRP grade, 6th out of 29 qualifying defensive tackles, his +10.5 overall grade is tenth-best among tackles. Marks is repaying the Jaguars faith with the best football of his career."

Marks is playing the best football of his career and he’s a big part of one of the best pass rushing units in the NFL. A few more signings like Marks, and David Caldwell will find himself another step closer to building a winning team.