3 pass rushers the Jaguars could target for before the 2023 trade deadline
• Here are 3 players they could add to their rotation via trade
One of the biggest questions surrounding the Jacksonville Jaguars entering the 2023 season was whether they had done enough to bolster their pass rush. So far, it looks like it's not an issue. In fact, outside linebackers Josh Allen and Travon Walker set the tone in the first two games, registering a combined five sacks.
K'Lavon Chaisson, for his part, has also fared well in a rotational role. He even registered his first sack of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2. On top of that, DaVon Hamilton and Dawuane Smoot, who are currently on the Injured Reserve, are close to returning.
The bottom line is that the Jaguars' pass rush hasn't been the issue it was made to be in the offseason. That said, their rotation could still use a boost. Allen and Walker have made strides but having a third pass rusher would make it difficult for opposing teams to contain them.
As noted before Hamilton and Smoot are close to returning but they may need a few weeks to hit their stride. General manager Trent Baalke has shown that he's willing to make big trades. Last year, he acquired wide receiver Calvin Ridley before the deadline. So far, the early returns have been as good as expected.
If Baalke does decide to make a move before this year's deadline, here are three players he could target who could improve the Jaguars pass rush.
No. 3 Pass rusher the Jaguars could trade for: Romeo Okwara
Defensive end Romeo Okwara registered 10 sacks for the Detroit Lions in 2021 but injuries have held him back the past two seasons. Right now, he's stuck behind Aidan Hutchinson, Levi Onwuzurike, who missed the 2022 season with a back injury, and Charles Harris on the depth chart.
Okwara is currently healthy, so maybe all he needs is a chance to play. He won't probably get it in Detroit. The Lions just placed linebacker James Houston, who had eight sacks last year, on Injured Reserve, so they could be hesitant to part ways with Okwara. That said, they haven't given him much playing time this year, so there's a chance they'll entertain offers if anyone inquires about him.