5 free agents the Jaguars can sign ahead of training camp

Dallas Cowboys free safety Damontae Kazee (18) and New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Cowboys free safety Damontae Kazee (18) and New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons defensive end Chris Odom (91) at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3 free agent the Jaguars can sign: Chris Odom, Edge

This one migth look like an unorthodox pick at first sight but defensive end Chris Odom could become a low-key, solid signing ahead of the 2022 season. The former Arkansas State Red Wolf last appeared in an NFL game for the Washinton Commanders back in the distant year of 2019. However, he’s remained active since then and is currently looking for a chance to show he can play at a high level.

Odom played in the USFL’s Houston Gamblers  earlier this year and went on to log 41 total tackles, 50 total pressures and 12.5 tackles for a loss. Moreover, he posted a 25 percent pass-rush win rate.

Of course, context is necessary and the level of competition in the USFL is significantly lower than the one in the NFL. But Odom should be on many team’s radar ahead of training camp. After all, he’s currently 27, and still in his prime. He could become a developmental project for anyone who’s willing to take a flyer on him. and the Jaguars could be one of those teams. They revamped their front seven this offseason but could add pieces to their defensive line rotation ahead of the 2022 season.

Travon Walker will most likely start opposite outside linebacker Josh Allen in Week 1, with Dawuane Smoot and Arden Key also playing important roles. This could open the door for Odom, who wouldn’t need to start right away and would instead have the chance to develop and compete for snaps in training camp.