3 Jaguars who could be cut before playing a snap for the team in 2024
The Jacksonville Jaguars made upgrades to several position groups in the offseason. Even though they could still fill a few holes, they objectively look better than they did at the end of 2023. In particular, the upper half of the roster looks much better. In fact, the Jags won't have many starting jobs up for grabs. On the other hand, competition for a handful of reserve roles will be plentiful.
These don't bode well for players on the fringe. In fact, these three who just joined the team in the offseason could be released before they play a single snap in Jacksonville.
TE Josiah Deguara could be cut before playing a snap for the Jaguars
Tight end isn't an area of need for the Jaguars due to the presence of Evan Engram. A free-agent acquisition in 2022, the former Ole Miss Rebel has gone on to establish himself as a pivotal piece on the offense, registering 187 receptions for 1,729 yards with eight touchdowns the past two seasons. That said, the team's brass probably want better production from the rest of their tight-end room.
Luke Farrell has developed into a fine complementary player. Not much of a pass-catcher, the 2021 fifth-round pick will come onto the football field every now and then and haul in a few passes if called upon. However, his biggest contributions come as a blocker. Also in the mix is sophomore Brenton Strange.
A second-round pick in last year's draft, Strange failed to earn a role on offense. He's expected to improve in 2024, and if he does, signing Josiah Deguara may have been unnecessary.
Deguara was a third-round pick by the Green Bay Packers in 2020. He's appeared in 50 games with 10 starts over the past four seasons, catching 47 receptions for 436 yards and two touchdowns. His versatility to line up at different spots across the line of scrimmage could come in handy in Jacksonville. That said, his production isn't much different from Farrell's.
If Strange ends up making strides and the Jaguars could have to choose between Deguara and Farrell. They will probably go with the familiar face.