4 tough challenges remaining for the Jaguars this offseason

4. The Jaguars must commit to OLB Josh Allen long-term.

While outside linebacker Josh Allen hasn’t truly had a breakout year, he’s been one of the Jaguars’ best defenders over the last three years and there’s no doubt their defense is better with him than without him. That’s why the organization must ensure he remains in Jacksonville for years to come.

Back in 2019, Jacksonville used the seventh overall pick on Allen and he went on to have a Pro Bowl campaign, logging 10.5 sacks. However, a knee injury slowed him down in 2020 and forced him to miss eight games. Last year, the Kentucky product showed the kind of impact he could have when healthy and was one of the most dominant pass rushers at the midpoint. However, he faded down the stretch and wasn’t as productive as he was early in the season.

While Allen needs to play better, the Jaguars need to get him help and show how important he is for the organization by giving him a multi-year extension. Signing former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Arden Key was a good first step but they now need to take another pass rusher in the draft, probably Aidan Hutchinson or Travon Walker.

The Jaguars next need to exercise Allen’s fifth-year option on his rookie deal and then give him a multi-year extension. This would ensure he can focus on becoming the best edge defender he can be. The Tennesee Titans just gave outside linebacker Harold Landry a multi-year extension despite the fact that he’s had more than 10 sacks in a season just once because they know he’s a mainstay of their defense. The Jags must do the same with Allen.