4 underrated Jaguars players who could make a massive impact next season
2. Ezra Cleveland, guard
Is Ezra Cleveland underrated? He's certainly not an unknown commodity but it's fair to say that his first season in Duval didn't go the way he or the Jags envisioned. A second-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020, Cleveland joined the starting lineup as a rookie and played 49 consecutive games before a foot sprain ended the streak. But despite the injury, the Jaguars traded for him at the 2023 deadline.
Unfortunately, Cleveland couldn't hit his stride in Jacksonville, mostly because of other injuries he suffered. The fact that he wasn't able to develop a rapport with his teammates didn't help matters. But despite his struggles, the Jags wanted to bring him back.
Set to become a free agent, Cleveland got a three-year deal worth $24 million to remain in Jacksonville. At first sight, it seemed like the front office overpaid for his services but it's easy to see why keeping him around was their priority. For starters, the former Boise State Bronco should be at full strength. Add the fact that he'll get to spend a full offseason with the Jaguars, and he will be in a position to bounce back in 2024.