Previewing the ’10 Jaguars – The Linebackers
By Zoltan Paksa
With the arrival of Morrison; Daryl Smith, another Jaguars player who is VERY underrated and overlooked in his position, can now return to strong-side LB. That is his original position, so expect big things from him. He was the defensive MVP for the Jaguars in 2009. He can rush the passer; he is great against the run and the pass. ProFootballFocus rated him the best outside linebacker in the NFL overall! The 4th best against pass coverage.
He was so needed at the strong side last year and has been the workhorse of this defense. With Kirk Morrison, Justin Durant and a (hopefully) functioning pass rush and effective defensive line, Daryl Smith can easily be better then ever!
2009 was Daryl’s best season as a pro. In his sixth season, he recorded 107 tackles, 6 passes defended, 1 interception and 3 forced fumbles. He has been a starter for the Jaguars since 2004, his rookie season. In his career as a Jaguar, he has 468 tackles and 23 passes defended. He is, along with Kirk Morrison, is a lock as a starter.