Jaguars OLB Travon Walker gets first sack of his NFL career

The Jacksonville Jaguars weren’t off to a great start against the Washinton Commanders in Week 1. They entered the second half down 14-3 and have struggled on both sides of the ball. On the bright side, there’s still plenty of time to turn things around and outside linebacker Travon Walker made his presence felt when he recorded the first sack of his NFL career.

In fact, not long after running back James Robinson scored a touchdown that made it a more manageable 14-9.

Walker hadn’t had a great game up until that point. He was flagged for offsides and has failed to contain the edge at times. However, he reminded everyone why he was the No. 1 overall pick in the draft when he sacked quarterback Carson Wentz. Here’s a video of the play.

The Jaguars made a massive gamble when they chose Walker first overall. The former Georgia Bulldog played different roles in college and was rarely asked to rush the passer. However, the Jaguars’ brass liked their upside and moved him to outside linebacker full-time, the position where they project him to have the biggest impact in the NFL.

So far, Walker’s transition has gone well. He didn’t look overwhelmed in training camp or the preseason. On the other hand, he will experience a learning curve throughout the year just like any rookie would. But for the time being, he’s making the most of his chance to contribute.

James Robinson scores Jaguars’ 1st touchdown vs. Commanders

James Robinson hasn’t missed a beat and you wouldn’t know tore his Achilles late in the 2021 season just by watching him play against the Commanders. As of this writing, he’s toted the rock six times for 44 yards and scored the Jaguars’ first touchdown of the game. The Jags went for two but failed to convert. Trevor Lawrence targeted tight end Evan Engram but it was incomplete.

Also, Lawrence connected with wide receiver Christian Kirk for a 40-yard pass in the same drive, putting on display the rapport they developed in training camp.

The Jaguars are closing in on the Commanders. It’s up to them to catch up and get the lead. They have time to make it happen.