Jacksonville Jaguars to Sign LB Dan Skuta, According to Reports
By Daniel Lago
The Jacksonville Jaguars made one of the biggest moves so far in the offseason late Monday when they reportedly snagged star free agent tight end Julius Thomas. What shouldn’t be lost in the shuffle are some of the other moves the Jaguars are making to fill out the roster. One of those is the now reported signing of linebacker Dan Skuta, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers.
When free agency opens up on Tuesday after 4:00 pm ET, the #Jaguars are expected to sign LB Dan Skuta, per league source.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 10, 2015
Dan Skuta was a nice pickup by the #49ers two years ago. +8.7 overall grade on defense including +5.1 pass rush grade over two seasons.
— Jeff Deeney (@PFF_Jeff) March 10, 2015
Playing in limited snaps for the 49ers, Skuta played well given what he was asked to do. He was effective both rushing the passer and in coverage, and he seems to be an ideal fit for the OTTO position. The Jaguars signed Dekoda Watson last offseason with the hope of having him man the OTTO spot, but that signing flopped and nobody really fit into Gus Bradley’s desired role for that hybrid outside linebacker.
About to turn 29, Skuta presents some upside in the linebacker rotation, as he could play outside but also possibly man the middle linebacker position in a pinch. He also should contribute with special teams. This is a low risk, high upside signing that is usually made later in free agency, and it’s great to see the Jaguars being aggressive and securing him as soon as the free agency period opens.
Next: Free agent market already thinning for Jaguars?
More from Black and Teal
- Jacksonville Jaguars should welcome Derrick Henry into the kingdom
- Jaguars Rumors: Trent Baalke seems to be getting respect now
- Bold trade proposal has Jacksonville Jaguars shipping LT Cam Robinson
- Jaguars News: This division rival might be making a big move
- Former Jacksonville Jaguars S Johnathan Cyprien: “New Profession, Same Standards”