3 realistic expectations for Jaguars OLB K’Lavon Chaisson in 2022

1. Jaguars K’Lavon Chaisson must force three fumbles in 2022

One thing the Jaguars were lacking last year was takeaways. In fact, their defense ranked 32nd in takeaways with nine. It’s surely one of Mike Caldwell’s biggest priorities to improve in that area this upcoming season. Of course, the offense will be the biggest beneficiary, as they would get extra possessions and/or favorable field position.

Chaisson hasn’t registered a big play in the last two years and while it’s unreasonable to expect him to become a ballhawk and intercept passes by the bunches due to the position he plays, he should be able to force fumbles. Safety Andre Cisco led the Jags in fumbles last year with two. No disrespect to the former Syracuse Orangeman, but how can a defensive back force more fumbles than a linebacker?

Back in 2020, edge rusher Dawuane Smooth and linebacker Joe Schobert forced two fumbles each. The last Jaguars that recorded more than two was Yannick Ngakoue (four) and that was back in 2019. That year, Josh Allen also had two. Simply, Jacksonville’s defense must step up in 2022 and Chaisson must do his part.

You could argue that forcing three fumbles might be too tough a task for Chaisson but the truth is that he must give the Jaguars a reason to keep him around. It’s true that he hasn’t been put in a position to succeed but at some point, players need to show that they can thrive in spite of adversity, and Chaisson will have a chance in 2022 to change the narrative surrounding him.