3 Jacksonville Jaguars rookies who could start right away in 2022

No. 2 Jaguars rookie who could be a Day 1 starter – Devin Lloyd, LB.

The Jaguars made upgrades to most position groups this offseason but their linebacker corps arguably got the biggest makeover. Besides giving Foyesade Oluokun a three-year deal worth $45 million, they selected Utah’s Devin Lloyd with the 27th overall pick of this year’s draft and later took Wyoming’s Chad Muma at No. 70.

Before the draft, it looked like Chapelle Russell or Shaquille Quarterman would get a chance to compete for the starting spot next to Oluokun but that now seems highly unlikely after allocating two early-round selections to the linebacker unit.

Looking back, the Jaguars’ decision to trade three picks and move up six spots to land Lloyd isn’t particularly shocking. The Jags needed to add an off-linebacker after parting ways with Myles Jack and Damien Wilson earlier this year and due to his status as a first-round draft pick, the former Utah Utes has a good chance to start from Day 1.

Lloyd was one of the best linebackers in the class and one of the top overall prospects in the selection meeting. However, his position doesn’t have the same value as edge rushers, cornerbacks, and wide receivers, that’s why he experience a slight slide and was available at No. 27.

Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell will ask the California native to do several things (drop in coverage, stop the run, and blitz but he should be up to the task. Don’t be surprised if Lloyd becomes a darkhorse candidate for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.