Jaguars: Top 4 offensive guard targets in 2022 NFL free agency

No. 2 guard the Jaguars must target in 2022 free agency – Laken Tomlinson

Offensive guard Laken Tomlinson has been a steady contributor for the San Francisco 49ers over the last few years. Originally a first-round selection by the Detroit Lions in 2015, the Duke product was traded for a fifth-round pick before the start of the 2017 season.

At first, it didn’t look like Tomlinson was part of the Niners’ long-term plans, as they declined to pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie deal. However, they gave him a three-year extension worth $18 million in 2018. Looking back, it was a rather affordable deal for San Francisco and one they are most likely glad they made, as the 28th overall pick in the 2015 draft has gone on to become a fixture of the 49ers offensive line.

Tomlinson has proven to be durable, starting 72 of 73 possible games since 2017. Last season, he posted a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 78.8, the highest mark in his seven-year career. This season, he’s been equally consistent and has had a 75.4 overall grade.

The 49ers could also have a limited amount of cap space to work with in 2022. As of this writing, they’re set to have around $12 million, which won’t be enough to either re-sign their own players or target any big-name free agents next offseason. This could lead Tomlinson to look for a payday somewhere else, and the Jaguars will be in a position to sign him.