4 things Jacksonville Jaguars need to make the playoffs in 2022

2. The Jaguars need their 2022 draft class to contribute right away

The Jaguars have held the number one pick in back-to-back years. They used it this year on edge rusher Travon Walker, who will be making the switch to full-time outside linebacker after lining up at different spots in college.

The Jaguars could have drafted Aidan Hutchinson, a more polished pass rusher, No. 1 but the Jaguars bet on Walker’s upside. The pick has the potential to backfire if the former Georgia Bulldog struggles during his transition and Hutchinson has success early on.

Having said that, Jacksonville doesn’t expect Walker to contribute right off the bat and they might get a return on their investment until next year. But what if he gets acclimated to the NFL quickly? He would form a dominant pass rush duo opposite outside linebacker Josh Allen.

Walker wasn’t the only player the Jags drafted in the first round this year though. They also chose Devin Lloyd with the 27th overall pick and unlike Walker, the former Utah Ute won’t need to change positions and could make an impact right out of the gate. The same is true for fellow linebacker Chad Muma. If he stands out in training camp, the coaching staff will have no choice but to give him playing time.

The Jags might not need their rookie class to contribute from Day 1 but if they have an impact early in the 2022 season, they could end up having a stout defense, one that would be able to help them win games.