Jaguars LB Devin Lloyd has highest PFF grade among rookies in Week 2

There were several players that had a key role in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 24-0 win over the Indianapolis Colts. One that hasn’t been discussed as much as he should is rookie linebacker Devin Lloyd, who had a pretty productive outing in Week 2. Fortunately, Michael Renner of Pro Football Focus is making sure his performance against Indy doesn’t go unnoticed.

Renner compiled a list of the top NFL rookies in Week 2 and Lloyd popped up at the top with an 87.1 PFF overall grade.

"From the backfields to the flats to downfield, Lloyd was everywhere for the Jaguars’ defense on Sunday. He fueled the kind of defensive performance that we haven’t seen from Jacksonville in a while. Lloyd allowed only three catches on five targets for 18 yards with a pick and two pass breakups."

The week before, Lloyd posted a mediocre 51.1 PFF grade. He logged 11 total tackles against the Washington Commanders but struggled in coverage, giving up three receptions on three targets for 47 yards.

It’s important to point out that Lloyd missed a significant portion of training camp with a hamstring injury and he only suited up for one game in the preseason. It’s possible that he was a bit rusty coming off the injury and needed time to get acclimated. Once he did, he was able to shine.

Travon Walker and Devin Lloyd are making an impact for the Jaguars

The Jags didn’t get many positive reviews following the 2022 draft. Taking Travon Walker first overall was seen as a massive gamble while their decision to select two linebackers (Lloyd and Chad Muma) was deemed unnecessary.

However, both Walker and Lloyd have had an immediate impact on defense. The former logged a sack and an interception against the Washington Commanders while the latter was an asset in pass coverage against the Colts. They’ve become cogs in a defense that currently ranks fifth in points allowed and third in takeaways.

Like any other rookies, both Walker and Lloyd will eventually hit a few speed bumps but it’s hard to deny the impact they both had in the shutout victory over the Colts. If they can keep playing at a high level, the Jaguars’ chances of beating the Los Angeles Chargers will go up.