4 steps the Jacksonville Jaguars must take to upgrade the O-Line in 2024

1. The Jaguars must part ways with Brandon Scherff

The Jaguars didn't mind paying a premium for Brandon Scherff last year because they knew his presence would bolster the offensive trenches. Scherff, a first-round pick by the Washington Commanders in 2015, had been selected to the Pro Bowl five times and earned a First-Team All-Pro designation. Even though he had last started a full season in 2016 and missed 24 games from 2017-2021, the upside seemed to outweigh the risk.

While Scherff managed to appear in all 17 games last year, he didn't play at the level he was accustomed to in Washington. Granted, he dealt with an abdomen injury for most of the year but that doesn't explain why he hasn't been able to reach his Pro Bowl form in 2023. Make no mistake, he's improved but nowhere near the level he had early in past years.

Scherff hasn't been outright dreadful but his performance doesn't match his salary. He's scheduled to make $23.9 million next year, but releasing him would create a tad over $9 million with $14.8 million in dead money. The Jaguars could move on from Scherff and sign a younger, cheaper guard to replace him in free agency.

Right guard Kevin Dotson, who's thrived after being traded to the Los Angeles Rams, would be an excellent addition to the offensive trenches but he's expected to have a robust market for his services. Robert Hunt may be a bit cheaper but Jacksonville would most likely have to fork out lots of cash to secure him. A young, more affordable option would be Jon Runyan, who's low-key been solid for the Green Bay Packers and will probably be available next offseason.

Either way, parting ways with Brandon Scherff and bringing in a younger but equally productive player to line up at right guard may be the best course of action in 2024.

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