Jacksonville Jaguars: 3 new players in AFC South to worry about in 2021

The Jacksonville Jaguars offensive line will face Kwity Paye twice a year.

The Indianapolis Colts’ defense registered 40 sacks last season. Justin Houston and Denico Autry combined for 15.7 of those quarterback takedowns and both left via free agency this offseason. Thus, Indy spent their two first selections in 2020’s draft on EDGE rushers Kwity Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo.

A three-star prospect out of high school, Paye was one of the top pass-rusher in this year’s selection meeting. Although the Michigan product only racked up 11.5 sacks over his four-year collegiate career, he has the physical tools to thrive in the NFL. His lateral quickness is second to none and if works on his ball-tracking skills, he has the chance to become one of the premier EDGE defenders in the AFC South.

Even though Paye has a limited palette of pass-rush moves, he should have an impact right out of the gate. Last season, Jaguars left tackle Cam Robinson allowed five sacks and 40 total pressures. On the other side of the offensive line, right tackle Jawaan Taylor gave up eight sacks and 58 total pressures. The Colts’ rookie Paye may have a favorable matchup against both.

Both Robinson and Taylor are looking to building consistency this upcoming season. Paye may make it difficult, as he will face off against them twice in 2021, first in Week 10 and later in the season finale. On one hand, the Jaguars’ offensive tackles will have time to prepare for the matchup. On the downside, by the time Jacksonville takes on the Colts, Paye may have already found his footing in the NFL.