5 best pairings on the Jacksonville Jaguars roster in 2022

No. 3 Jaguars best pairing – OLBs Travon Walker and Josh Allen

The Jaguars’ defense has been better than their offensive counterpart in recent years but not by a wide margin. Over the last two seasons, they had trouble stopping opposing teams from running at ease and have ranked near the cellar in points allowed. This hasn’t gone unnoticed though and the front office made several upgrades to most position groups during the offseason.

One of the most meaningful additions the Jags made was defensive lineman Travon Walker, the first overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft. The former Georgia Bulldog will play outside linebacker in Mike Caldwell’s 3-4 scheme after having different responsibilities at the collegiate level. It’s possible that Walker will struggle with the transition but playing opposite Josh Allen should take some of the pressure off his shoulders.

Allen has been the Jaguars’ best pass rusher over the last few seasons. A first-round selection in the 2019 draft, he logged 10.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl as a rookie. However, he struggled with injuries in 2020 and faded down the stretch last season. The former Kentucky Wildcat has played at a high level at times but needs to be more consistent, something he should be able to do under Caldwell.

The Jaguars will lean on Arden Key and Dawuane Smoot to generate pressure upfront but Walker and Allen will lead the way. If the duo combines for 20 sacks, Jacksonville’s pass rush will be in great shape.