Christian Kirk and 4 other Jaguars earn a spot in All-AFC South team

Although no Jacksonville Jaguars player popped up on CBS Sports’ 2022 top 100 list, five of them made their preseason All-AFC South team, showing their roster isn’t completely devoid of talent heading into the regular season.

Jared Dubin of CBS Sports recently put together an All-AFC South roster and wide receiver Christian Kirk, All-Pro guard Brandon Scheff, cornerback Darious Williams, return specialist Jamal Agnew and punter Logan Cooke made the cut. It was a bit surprising to see Josh Allen get snubbed, especially when you take into account that Indianapolis Colts defensive end Kwity Paye was included. Nevertheless, it’s encouraging to see the Jags get recognition despite the fact that they went 3-14 last season.

Matt Ryan, who landed in Indy earlier this year, was the pick at quarterback. The 2016 MVP still has a couple of years left in the tank and should give the Colts stability at the position, so it’s not shocking to see him get the nod over Trevor Lawrence, who should make a big leap in Year 2 but is coming off an underwhelming rookie season.

Jonathan Taylor was the choice at running back after toting the rock 332 times for 1,811 rushing yards with 18 touchdowns last year. Derrick Henry missed a good chunk of the 2021 season with injury and is facing an uphill battle to gain his King title back.

The Jaguars offseason moves should lead to more wins in 2022

Desperate times call for desperate measures and general manager Trent Baalke operated with a sense of urgency in the offseason, spending the surplus of cap space the Jags had at their disposal. Among the players Baalke signed in free agency are Christian Kirk, Darious Williams, and Brandon Scherff. He also signed Jamal Agnew last year. Meanwhile, Logan Cooke is the only homegrown Jaguar who made the All-AFC South team.

The Jaguars’ 2022 free agent class will have an immediate impact but their 2021 draft class, led by Trevor Lawrence, is also expected to contribute. Their top five picks are poised to have big roles on both sides of the ball and should help Jacksonville double their win totals from last year.

Jacksonville has won a combined 15 games and has been in the division cellar over the last four years. However, they made enough moves to compete in a weakened AFC South in 2021. While it’s hard to envision them making a deep playoff run, they have a legitimate shot at the division crown.

The Jaguars are a work in progress but they have better in the offseason. Analysts and talking heads are starting to notice them. Having five players make the All-AFC South team is a step in the right direction. Next is the NFL’s top 100.