Jaguars: Way-too-early 2023 AFC South prediction

1st Place (AFC South Champions) – Jacksonville Jaguars (10-7)

The Jacksonville Jaguars are poised to be back-to-back division champions.

There are several components within the roster that should naturally improve such as the continued development of quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the expected growth of sophomore defensive end Trevon Walker.

However, if the Jags expect to exceed expectations again, they’ll need to shore up some major issues.

The Jags certainly need to work on revamping the pass rush as they finished 25th in sacks in 2022.

But with former #1 overall pick Trevon Walker in his second year and Josh Allen leading the way once again on the opposite side of the defensive line, the Jaguars certainly have a good core to continue building with.

If they can find a proven veteran pass rusher through free agency and possibly bring back savvy edge rusher Arden Key, they will hopefully have a formula that equates to more sacks and takeaways.

Also, with the expected addition of wide receiver Calvin Ridley via trade from the Atlanta Falcons, the Jaguars should have a proven home run threat at the wide receiver position which they have lacked since the days of D.J. Chark streaking down the sideline.

If Ridley is reinstated by commissioner Roger Goodell, which by most accounts is expected to be the case, and he shows the same burst and playmaking ability he had with the Falcons in 2020, the Jaguars will find themselves with a valuable weapon that can truly open up the offensive playback and stretch the field for Trevor Lawrence and company.