4 big questions the Jaguars must answer after the 2024 NFL Draft
• They've still have work left to do
• The front office must answer these 5 questions
The Jacksonville Jaguars have checked off several important boxes in the offseason. First, they revamped their coaching staff on the defensive side of the ball. They proceeded to address several needs in free agency and later signed outside linebacker Josh Allen to a long-term deal. More recently, they loaded up on talent in the 2024 NFL Draft, but there's still work left.
It's true that the Jags filled several holes in the offseason but there are a few still pending. Also, the team's brass needs to start sorting out the roster. Granted, there's still time before the start of the regular season, but Jacksonville must answer the next four questions as soon as possible.
4. Will the Jaguars try to improve their pass rush?
The Jaguars have a pair of top-notch pass rushers in Josh Allen and Travon Walker. The duo logged 27.5 sacks between the two last year, but their depth behind them is currently less than ideal. K'Lavon Chaisson and Dawuane Smoot left in free agency. They signed with the Carolina Panthers, and the Buffalo Bills, respectively. To replace them, the Jags inked Trevis Gipson and drafted Myles Cole.
Gipson logged seven sacks in 2021 but had only four the past two years. He's currently a reclamation project who might end up bouncing back. Conversely, he could show that his best season was a fluke. Cole, on the other hand, is a developmental prospect — one with immense upside — but a developmental prospect nonetheless. Also in the mix is sophomore Yasir Abdullah, who may make the switch to off-linebacker.
If either Allen or Walker misses time next season, the Jaguars could be in trouble. That's why it makes sense to explore the possibility of bringing in another pass rusher. Bud Dupree, who played for defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen last year, remains unsigned.
Another option would be to look at the waiver wire before the regular season starts. Either way, Jacksonville should most definitely look for ways to fortify the pass rush.