5 major storylines to monitor at Jaguars minicamp in 2022

1. Jaguars edge Travon Walker’s transition to outside linebacker

One of the most heated debates before this year’s draft was whether the Jaguars should choose Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson or Georgia’s Travon Walker. In the end, Jacksonville went with Walker even though he wasn’t as polished as a pass rusher as Hutchinson.

Back in college, Walker was asked to play different positions across the defensive line but he will move to outside linebacker on Jacksonville’s defense, something defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell recently confirmed. It’s uncertain how long the transition will take but the former Bulldog is already getting acclimated to his new role. During the minicamp, he was seen working on his footwork and zone drops. Here’s a video of the No. 1 overall pick getting some work done, via Jamal St. Cyr of News4JAX.

Walker is aware he’s got his work cut out and doesn’t mind the extra work if that’s what it takes to become a dominant pass rusher. Having said that, the coaching staff is taking the right approach and isn’t trying to rush his development. As Caldwell noted, he’s one part of the Jaguars’ defensive puzzle and he won’t be the only player that will be expected to contribute.

Rookies always go through an adjustment period in the NFL and this will be especially true for Walker, who isn’t lacking any talent but will be asked to play a position he’s not fully acquainted with. And his work in minicamp will lay the foundation of his rookie campaign.