3 Jaguars rookies not named Anton Harrison who can have a huge impact in 2023

Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Yasir Abdullah (56) on the field during drills during Monday.
Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Yasir Abdullah (56) on the field during drills during Monday. / Bob Self / USA TODAY NETWORK
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No. 1 Rookie who could make a huge impact for the Jaguars: Antonio Johnson, DB

Here's another pick that earned the Jags rave reviews across the NFL. Just like the pass rush, the nickel position was seen as a need throughout most of the offseason but instead of signing someone in free agency or using an early-round selection, the Jaguars chose to take care of it until Round 5 to take care of it, sort of.

See, Antonio Johnson showcased the ability to line up at several spots in the backfield even though he was listed as a safety on the Texas A&M defense. That versatility made him a candidate to go in the first or second round of this year's draft. However, he slid to the fifth round for some reason, so general manager Trent Baalke decide to put an end to his tumble.

If Johnson plays up to his talent, he could challenge veteran Tre Herndon for the nickel job. An undrafted free agent in 2018, Herndon will tentatively start inside but Johnson could end up seizing the job at one point of the offseason if he can make the transition to nickel full-time.

But even if Johnson needs time to get acclimated, he could get on the field in sub packages as a third safety. The East St. Louis native needs to do a better job of reading offenses and he needs to take better angles when tackling. However, he's got the type of game-changing skills that should help him earn a spot in the starting lineup down the road.

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