4 strongest position groups on Jaguars roster ahead of 2023 offseason

Jacksonville Jaguars GM Trent Baalke and HC Doug Pederson at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville Knight Campus. (Imagn Images photo pool)
Jacksonville Jaguars GM Trent Baalke and HC Doug Pederson at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville Knight Campus. (Imagn Images photo pool) /
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Jacksonville Jaguars LB Foyesade Oluokun (23) and LB Chad Muma (48) at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Jaguars biggest strength ahead of the 2023 offseason: Linebackers

Even though linebacker Myles Jack had been a mainstay of the Jaguars’ defense since 2016, they believed both parties could use a fresh start and moved on from him in the offseason. Similarly, the team’s brass opted not to re-sign veteran Damien Wilson and inked Foyesade Oluokun in free agency.

The Jags weren’t done revamping their linebacker corps though. After taking edge rusher Travon Walker with the No. 1 pick, they moved back into the first round to take Lloyd at No. 27. Later, the front office saw Chad Muma slide to the third round and didn’t pass up the chance to take him.

Oluokun was selected team captain before the start of the season and has picked up where he left off with the Atlanta Falcons last year, registering 162 total tackles, one sack, and two forced fumbles in 2022.

Lloyd started hot, logging six passes defensed and two interceptions in the first three weeks. Although he was benched in favor of Muma after hitting a rookie wall, he’s played well in a reserve role and will likely compete for the starting spot next to Oluokun in the offseason.

Muma has made the most of his playing time since joining the starting lineup in Week 12. On the other hand, he’s been dealing with an ankle and has once again taken a back seat to Lloyd. Once he’s healthy, he should see an uptick in defensive snaps.

Last but not least is Shaquille Quarterback, who’s been mostly relegated to special teams but has shown out when called upon. Against the Tennesse Titans, he forced running back Derrick Henry to fumble, which the Jags then recovered.