5 early free agents the Jaguars must target in 2023 to round out roster
Although the Jacksonville Jaguars have made strides this season, they still have a long way to go before they become a perennial contender. They’re currently 3-7 and on the brink of getting knocked out of playing contention. Coaching has certainly played a role in the Jags’ inability to win games but their lack of difference-makers has also been a factor.
The team’s brass will need to keep adding talent next offseason, which might be difficult when you take into account that they are poised to be $4 million over the cap in 2023. Having said that, Jacksonville can easily balance their books if they rework a handful of deals and move on from a few players whose production hasn’t been on par with their salary.
Heck, the Jaguars might even create enough cap room to sign a few players in 2023. With that in mind, here are five early targets to consider next offseason. Keep in mind that some of these players might return to their current team, so there’s no guarantee they’ll hit the open market.
No. 5 early free agent the Jaguars must consider: Elgton Jenkins
49. . . . Elgton Jenkins, OL. 74. player
The offensive line is one of the Jaguars’ biggest strengths in 2022 but the group could undergo chances next year. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor might leave in free agency and Walker Little could end up taking his place in the lineup. Also, left guard Ben Bartch suffered a season-ending knee injury and it’s uncertain if he will get his job back in 2023.
If the Jags want to make an upgrade at left guard, they should then pursue Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins, whose ability to play different positions across the offensive line will be highly coveted in free agency.
A second-round pick in the 2019 draft, Jenkins missed the 2021 season with a torn ACL but he’s bounced back nicely and currently has a 66.7 Pro Football Focus grade despite the fact that he recently switched positions.
Jenkins could turn the Jags’ offensive line into one of the best in the leagues. The only caveat is that he will most likely be in high demand next year and might not fit Jacksonville’s budget.