Jaguars can sign these 5 FAs with ties to HC Doug Pederson

No. 3 free agent with ties to Jaguars HC Doug Pederson – Derek Barnett.

The Jaguars will have a shot at taking one of the top two edge rushers of the 2022 NFL Draft, Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson and Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux with the first overall pick. Either one would be a fine addition to their front seven that could form an outstanding pass-rush duo opposite outside linebacker Josh Allen.

Regardless of whom the Jags chose — they could also draft Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal —  they could target Derek Barnett in free agency to bolster their depth. The former Tennessee Volunteer never lived up to his first-round billing in Philadelphia but has been a key cog of their defensive line rotation over the last five years, posting 21.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and 147 total tackles. His best year came in 2019, when he logged 6.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

The brightest moment in Barnett’s NFL career came in Super Bowl 52, when he scooped a fumble that sealed the Eagles’ victory over the New England Patriots. Fellow defensive Brandon Graham was the one that forced it but Barnett came through when his team needed him the most. In Jacksonville, the 14th overall pick in the 2017 draft wouldn’t have to play a feature role, and would instead be part of their rotation, which could increase his productivity.

Pro Football Focus projects Barnett will ink a three-year, $37.5 million this offseason. That may be too much for the Jaguars but if his asking price comes down, they need to consider making a run for him.