Jaguars LB Chad Muma will have chance to make impression in training camp

Rookie linebacker Devin Lloyd suffered an injury that will keep him out of the early portion of this year’s training camp. This could give the Jacksonville Jaguars the chance to take a look at Chad Muma, the 70th overall pick in the 2022 draft.

Head coach Doug Pederson met with the local media Monday and among the different topics he discussed, he gave updates on the torn Achilles running back James Robinson suffered last year and injuries to other players, including the one Lloyd suffered.

"Devin Lloyd is the one that is probably going to miss a little bit of time. He’s got a little hamstring that popped up yesterday on him, nothing too significant but we’re just going to be cautious with him and give him some time."

Lloyd was the 27th overall pick in this year’s draft. The Jags had the 33rd overall selection but traded back into the first round to select him. The California native played 36 collegiate games and logged 256 total tackles, 43 tackles for a loss, 15.5 sacks, five interceptions, and two forced fumbles.

The Jaguars will have the chance to take a look at rookie Chad Muma

If Lloyd ends up not missing much time, he will still be on track to start next to veteran linebacker Foyesade Oluokun in Week 1. However, his absence will open the door for Muma to make a positive impression on the coaching staff.

The former Wyoming Cowboy was one of the top off-linebackers in this year’s draft but slid to the third round and the Jags couldn’t pass up the chance to take him despite the fact that they had already chosen Lloyd in the first round.

Earlier this year, head coach Doug Pederson was asked what kind of role he envisioned for Muma this year and said that he would need to see him play in training camp. With Lloyd out, the Colorado native will have the chance to show what he can do. Back in college, he appeared in 33 games and recorded 266 total tackles, 18 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, three interceptions, and one forced fumble.

It’s always bad news when a player has to miss games with injuries. On the bright side, Lloyd’s doesn’t seem to be serious, and the Jaguars don’t have to rush him back due to the presence of Muma.