Jacksonville Jaguars way-too-early 53-man roster projection: June edition

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense now has plenty of depth.

Defensive coordinator Joe Cullen will employ 3-4 and 4-3 looks in 2021. The Jaguars’ EDGE defenders will have their hand on the ground at times and they will sometimes rush the quarterback while standing up. Also, it will be interesting how frequently the team uses the nickel formation (three cornerbacks).

Defensive tackles (4): Malcom Brown, Jay Tufele, Doug Costin, and DaVon Hamilton

After trading for Brown and drafting Tufele this offseason, there is no longer room for defensive Taven Bryan. The Florida product has had three years to find his groove but this is the year he runs out of opportunities.

Defensive ends (5): Josh Allen, K’Lavon Chaisson, Jordan Smith, Dawuane Smoot, Roy-Robertson Harris

The Jags re-signed Adam Gotsis this offseason but there’s a chance he won’t be on the roster this offseason. Also, Jihad Ward, who joined the team in free agency, doesn’t make the cut.

Editor’s note: The original version of this article had omitted Roy-Roberson Harris, who should be an important part of the Jaguars’ defensive front rotation. He makes the roster over linebacker Dylan Moses, who will be in the practice squad.

Linebackers (4): Myles Jack, Joe Schobert, Damien Wilson, Leon Jacobs

In 2020, Leon Jacobs started a few games before an injury ended his season. He will compete with Wilson for playing time.

Cornerbacks (6): C.J. Henderson, Shaquill Griffin, Tyson Campbell, Tre Herndon, Sidney Jones, Brandon Rusnak

Henderson and Griffin will probably be the starters on Day 1. Campbell, Herndon, and Jones will compete for playing time. Rusnak’s main role will be on special teams.

Safeties (5): Jarrod Wilson, Rayshawn Jenkins, Daniel Thomas, Andre Cisco, Rudy Ford

Thomas and Cisco could compete with Wilson for the starting spot next to Rayshawn Jenkins. Ford will mainly play on special teams.

Special teams (3): Josh Lambo (kicker), Logan Cooke (punter), Ross Matiscik (long snapper)

Lambo should be healthy after dealing with injuries in 2020.