5 affordable free agent targets for the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason

4. Javon Kinlaw, defensive tackle, San Francisco 49ers

The Jaguars shouldn't have released Foley Fatukasi on his birthday. What was supposed to be a day for celebration for Fatukasi, quickly turned into an awkward moment. Leaving aside the timing of the move, it didn't make sense to keep the veteran defensive tackle around any longer.

Having signed a three-year deal worth $30 million in 2022, Fatukasi was underwhelming the past two seasons, tallying a paltry 1.5 sacks in that span. Granted, he was tasked with clogging up lanes and collapsing the pocket as a nose tackle, but he failed to fulfill both tasks. Simply put, the Jags weren't getting enough bang for their buck, and by releasing Fatukasi, they can give his roster spot to another player who'll have a bigger impact at the line of scrimmage.

One low-key option would be Javon Kinlaw. The former first-round pick hasn't lived up to expectations, with injuries preventing him from hitting his stride. Having said that, the South Carolina product had an encouraging 2023 campaign, posting a career-best 31 total pressures. On top of that, he registered a 70.3 Pro Football Focus pass rush grade, also a career-high.

Now, the Jags may be wary of Kinlaw's medical history. Before playing all 17 games last year, he missed 27 games in his first three seasons. On the other hand, he could be a solid reclamation project for defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen. Maybe all he needs is a fresh start to put it all together and the Jaguars could offer it to him without having to spend much.