The dirty hit linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair laid on Trevor Lawrence was the biggest talking point of the divisional matchup between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans. One of the unintended consequences of the cheap shot that led to a scuffle was that the news that left tackle Walker Little got a new contract extension was overshadowed. Nevertheless, head coach Doug Pederson made sure that the silver lining didn't go unnoticed.
Following the 23-20 loss to Houston, Pederson told the local media that he was thrilled to see Little get paid, pointing out that the fourth-year offensive tackle had done enough to earn an extension.
" excited for Walker. It's a great opportunity for him," Pederson responded when asked what he thought of Little's new deal. "I think it just shows the commitment the organization has, and the type of player that he is to get him locked up. And I think for him too, I mean, it's a little little peace of mind knowing he can be here for the long haul, so I'm excited for him and his family. That's a great, great opportunity, great for the organization, obviously, in our team, and excited for him."
Originally slated to become a free agent in 2025, Little got a three-year deal worth $45 million with $26 million guaranteed from the Jaguars, ensuring he doesn't hit the open market. A second-round pick in the 2021 draft, the former Stanford Cardinal had flashed when called upon but hadn't been able to secure a featured role with Cam Robinson in the fold.
It wasn't until Robinson got traded at the 2024 deadline that Little got his chance. He made the most out of it, giving up just six total pressures the past six games, including the loss to Houston in Week 13. In total, the Texans native has appeared in 52 games with 22 starts.
We have signed OL Walker Little to a contract extension.⁰⁰#DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/NaLZtuOPax
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) December 1, 2024
The Jaguars made the right call when they re-signed Walker Little
Given that the left tackle market in free agent doesn't look particularly appealing, the Jags chose to go with the devil they knew. Add the fact he's salary ranks outside of the top 10 among left tackles in the NFL, and it looks like the Jags were smart for locking up Little before his rookie contract expired.
General manager Trent Baalke, for his part, said via the team's official website, that he's excited to keep a "homegrown talent who has grown in our system."
"Time and time again, Walker stepped in when needed, and stepped up his game at the tackle position. This is a great opportunity for a young player that we see every day on the practice field, who we believe will be playing his best football in the coming years."
It's unknown if striking a deal with Little is an indicator of Baalke's job security or lack thereof. What's certain is that regardless of who's the general manager next year, he won't have to worry about the left tackle position and will instead be able to turn his attention to other areas of need.
Similarly, the Jags can rule out taking an offensive tackle in the first or second round of next year's draft.
The truth is that the contract was a win-win situation for both Walker Little and the team. The left tackle saw his patience be rewarded while Jacksonville won't have to worry about who'll be Trevor Lawrence's blindside protector beyond 2024.