Jacksonville Jaguars could target these 5 potential cut candidates

Jacksonville Jaguars – Potential cut candidate No. 2: DE Ben Banogu

The Jaguars have done a good job of reinforcing the front seven this offseason. Besides locking up Roy Robertson-Harris and Jihad Ward this offseason, they also brought back Dawuane Smoot and Adam Gotsis. Furthermore, they drafted UAB linebacker Jordan Smith. If the Jaguars want to keep adding reinforcements, they should monitor Indianapolis Colts defensive end Ben Banogu.

Reporter Mike Wells of ESPN points out that the 2019 second-round pick was inactive for several games last season because he fell down the depth chart. Wells also notes that Indy might not see Banogu as part of their long-term plans after using their first two selections in this 2021’s draft on EDGE rushers Kwity Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo.

General manager Chris Ballard has had a solid track record acquiring talent since taking reins in 2017, so he must’ve seen something in Banogu to use such a high draft pick on him. It’s true that he appeared in just ten percent of the Colt’s defensive snaps in 2020 after playing 36 percent the season before. However, he’s just 25 and it may be worth giving him an opportunity.

EDGE defender Josh Allen and strong linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson will most likely be the Jaguars’ top rushers this upcoming season but the team could always add another player to the front seven. Although Banogu hasn’t lived up to his draft billing in Indianapolis he’s a player to watch if he’s released this summer. A change of scenery, in conjunction with defensive coordinator Joe Cullen’s scheme, could help him hit his stride.