Ranking Jaguars positional needs on defense ahead of free agency

Will the Jaguars re-sign Damien Wilson?

The Jaguars have one of the best linebackers in the NFL in Myles Jack. However, the former UCLA Bruin struggled in coverage and failed to register a sack, a forced fumble or an interception in 2021. He should be able to bounce back next season, as long as he’s still part of the team’s future plans.

Jack has one year left in his contract and it’s uncertain if he would fit whatever scheme the Jaguars’ will employ next season. If defensive coordinator Joe Cullen were to remain in Jacksonville, Jack’s chances of staying might go up. On the other hand, the Jags run the risk of losing Damien Wilson in free agency. The veteran linebacker signed a one-year deal last offseason and will hit the open market once again. Just like Jack, he might not fit the Jags’ next defensive system but was solid in 2021, logging three sacks and one interception, the first one of his NFL career.

Regardless of who’s calling the shots on defense, the Jaguars should keep Jack and re-sign Wilson. On the other hand, they could use a boost at outside linebacker. Josh Allen led the team in sacks with 7.5 and Dawuane Smoot was second with six. The Jags need a third pass rusher and Harold Landry of the Tennesee Titans may be available in free agency. He may ask for retail compensation but he would be worth it. Another alternative is to wait for the 2021 NFL Draft and take either Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux with the first overall pick.

Dylan Moses missed his rookie campaign while Jordan Smith only suited up in a couple of games and logged just 21 defensive snaps. Both Chapelle Russell and Dakota Allen will also be free agents, so it would be a good time to add depth to the linebacker corps in either free agency or the draft.