3 free agents the Jaguars must waste no time signing ahead of Week 1

The Jacksonville Jaguars put together a roster full of depth and talent ahead of Week 1. Moreover, they built a well-rounded practice squad with players who can contribute if called upon. On the other hand, the Jags have a handful of position groups that could use an immediate boost.

Granted, the free-agent pool isn't as deep as it was back in March but there are still a few players available who could help Jacksonville right off the bat. The following three come to mind.

Carl Lawson, defensive end

The Jaguars raised eyebrows when they kept 11 defensive linemen in their initial 53-man roster. The issue is that only three of them are true pass rushers: Travon Walker, Josh Hines-Allen, and Myles Cole. The coaching staff has previously said that Arik Armstead could see playing time on the edge. Roy Robertson-Harris may also see some snaps at defensive end. That said, Jacksonville should strongly consider adding reinforcements to their rotation. Carl Lawson is available.

Although injuries limited Lawson to six games in 2023, he logged seven sacks as recently as 2022. He last spent time with the Dallas Cowboys but was released on cutdown day. The Jags may want to sign him after Week 1 to avoid guaranteeing his salary but they should have his number on speed dial whether they beat the Miami Dolphins or not.

Lawson certainly has built a solid resume, registering 27 sacks in his NFL career. Injuries have hampered his impact in recent years but the truth is that nobody expects him to register double-digit quarterback takedowns. At this stage of his career, his better suited for a rotational role. If he can help Walker and Hines-Allen stay fresh on game day, he will have been a solid pickup.

Mason Cole, center

Full disclaimer, Mason Cole struggled in 2023, allowing 31 total pressures and two sacks. In fact, he was nearly as bad as the much-maligned Luke Fortner. Having said that, players are bound to have an off year, and the former Pittsburgh Steeler is no different. With that out of the way, let's talk about why it would make sense for the Jaguars.

The Steelers certainly thought they were better off eating up $1.5 million in dead money than keeping Cole around. On the other hand, the veteran center could benefit from a fresh start. Mac Jones has most definitely made the most of his clean slate in Jacksonville. The same is true for tight end Evan Engram, who's enjoyed a career revival and was even named team captain for the 2024 season. Who's to say Cole won't get back on track with the Jags?

The Jaguars already have a starting center in Mitch Morse, who signed a two-year deal in free agency. However, Fortner is currently the primary backup at the position, and the team's brass, along with Trevor Lawrence could get fidgety if he gets extended playing time in 2024.

Before his underwhelming 2023, Cole had a pair of solid seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and the Steelers. In Jacksonville, he wouldn't be asked to start but rather make sure there's a dependable backup behind Morse.

K'Waun Williams, cornerback

Cornerback isn't as big a need for the Jags as the national media claims it is. After all, they have a dependable trio in Tyson Campbell, Ronald Darby, and Jarrian Jones. On top of that, former first-round pick Darnell Savage, who mainly played safety for the Green Bay Packers will man the slot.

Jones, who's made a strong impression throughout the offseason, will be the primary backup inside and the boundaries. However, he'll surely experience the ups and downs that come with being a rookie. That's why the front office should add veteran K'Waun Williams to the mix.

An ankle injury forced Williams to sit out the whole 2023 season but he's been a reliable nickel throughout his career. The lowest PFF overall grade he's posted is 63.4. That's not bad at all. Like most players who remain unsigned, the former Pittsburgh Panther won't command a high salary and could probably be had for the veteran's minimum. That makes him an intriguing option to consider.

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