4 key moves Jaguars GM Trent Baalke still needs to make this offseason

1. The Jaguars need to find a replacement for Calvin Ridley

The Jaguars wanted to keep Calvin Ridley in 2024 and the feeling was mutual. However, they weren't able to extend him before free agency because they would've had to give the Atlanta Falcons their second-rounder, as they agreed when they traded for him. Ridley hit the open market and made it clear he wanted to return to Jacksonville. But out of nowhere, the Tennessee Titans swooped in and made him an offer he couldn't refuse.

Now, the Jaguars will be tasked with finding Ridley's replacement. They signed Gabe Davis in free agency but they still need a true No. 1 receiver. Tee Higgins would be a great option. He was Trevor Lawrence's favorite target in college and is among the best receivers in the league. However, he got the franchise tag before free agency began, so he'll stay with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2024 unless he's traded.

Trading for Higgins would be cost-prohibitive though. On top of having to compensate the Bengals, the Jaguars would have to give the former Clemson Tiger a new deal, and it won't come cheap. The same is true for Brandon Aiyuk, who's been the subject of trade talks since the end of 2023. There's no denying that Higgins or Aiyuk would give the Jacksonville offense a huge boost but they may be better off turning to the draft to look for Ridley's potential replacement.

Not only would the Jaguars get to keep their picks, but they could also save the money they would need to acquire either Higgins or Aiyuk. Sure, both of them are proven commodities, but the first three rounds will be filled with talent.

At No. 17, the Jaguars could have a shot at taking either Brian Thomas Jr., Keon Coleman or Adonai Mitchell. They could also trade up to the top 10 and take Rome Odunze. Both scenarios would be better alternatives than a trade for a veteran wideout.

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