Even though the Jacksonville Jaguars addressed nearly all their needs in the NFL Draft, they didn't make upgrades to their defensive line aside from the Jalen McLeod pick in Round 6. They've rectified that with the signing of a veteran in the aftermath.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the Jags have signed Emmanuel Ogbah to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million.
The signing doesn't come as a surprise when you take into account that general manager James Gladstone told the local media after the draft that the team wasn't going to "reach for what may be a perceived need," when asked why they didn't invest more picks in the defensive line.
Gladstone also said that the Jaguars will explore ways to bolster the D-Line with undrafted free agents and free agency. They added a few undrafted free agents, but none of them stand out. True to his word, the front office has now added Ogbah.
Before the Jags added Ogbah, they had two roster spots open. They'll need to bring in more another player to fill out their 90-man roster for training camp.
What does Emmanuel Ogbah offer the Jaguars?
The Jacksonville Jaguars fortified several position groups in free agency but didn't make any additions to the defensive line. James Gladstone explained that they didn't want to bring in any veterans that would potentially get in the way of the rookie class. Since the team's brass wasn't able to take care of the defensive line, they signed Emmanuel Ogbah.
A second-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in the 2016 NFL Draft, Ogbah has appeared in 123 games with 87 starts throughout his NFL career. He spent the last five seasons with the Miami Dolphins, where he racked up 29.5 sacks and 163 yards. In Jacksonville, he'll join a rotation that includes Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker, and Jalen McLeon.
Unlike McLeod, who needs to hone his skills, Ogbah can contribute right off the bat Moreover, he's an upgrade over the No. 3 pass rushers the Jaguars have had behind Walker and Josh-Hines Allen in previous years. He's probably the best they've had since Arden Key left in 2023.
It also makes sense to sign Ogbah for one year. He fills a need but is only a short-term fix. Having addressed other needs in this year's draft, the Jaguars can prioritize the pass rush in 2016.