The Jacksonville Jaguars are heading into the 2026 season looking pretty good. Under head coach Liam Coen, the Jags saw massive improvement, and look primed to make a deep run in the playoffs next season.
Jacksonville was able to play true complementary football, particularly towards the end of the season, with both offense and defense performing like elite units. However, that doesn't mean that Coen's perfect, of course. There are problems that need to be addressed, and the Jags will inevitably lose some players to free agency, too.
Of course, they'll also pick up some new players, too, and within their own division, there are plenty of good options. And this is the definition of a win-win for the Jags; not only will they bolster their own roster, but they could also weaken some rival teams, too.
The Jaguars could make their roster Super Bowl-ready with a few AFC South free agents
As free agency approaches, teams across the league are keeping an eye out for players who could be good additions. For the Jaguars, there are some positions needing to be addressed more than others, and they might find what they need within the AFC South.
Sheldon Rankins, Houston Texans
Rankins was a productive defensive tackle for the Texans, whose defense essentially carried the team to the playoffs, despite an inconsistent offense. He was given a one-year deal in Houston, though, so he's already set to hit free agency again.
The Jags should take note. Bolstering the pass rush is a major need for Jacksonville, and Rankins would be a huge boost. The former first-round pick is one of the best interior linemen in the league, according to Pro Football Focus, and has been a great leader in the Houston locker room. The Jaguars could definitely use him in 2026.
Arden Key, Tennessee Titans
Key would be another valuable asset to boost the Jags' pass rush, as he is a powerful, versatile player. He's also a leader for the Titans and is a crucial part of their defense. And yet, he's remained an underrated part of their team.
Nabbing Key will be hard for Jacksonville, though; he's made it clear he wants to stay in Tennessee. Yet ultimately, money talks more than anything else, and if the Jaguars can offer him a better deal than the Titans can, he'll almost certainly change his tune.
Alec Pierce, Indianapolis Colts
This one isn't even remotely a surprise; Pierce is easily one of the most in-demand free agents for 2026, and the Colts are going to have a tough time keeping him in Indianapolis. An dit will be a major loss for them if he walks.
Wide receiver isn't one of the Jaguars' top needs, but there's a good chance Brian Thomas Jr. could be let go, and Pierce would be a fantastic replacement. Pierce is an explosive receiver and a serious deep threat, and he would help Trevor Lawrence continue to elevate the Jags offense in 2026.