5 biggest X-factors for the Jaguars heading into the 2023 season

No. 2 biggest X-factor for the Jaguars in 2023: Walker Little, LT

So far, rookies and a role player have made the cut. Here's where things get interesting, as Walker Little is entering the most important season of his NFL career and it's not hyperbole. A second-round pick in 2021, the Texas native has only made six starts over the last two years and he'll be thrust to protect Trevor Lawrence's blind side next season. No pressure at all, right?

After an outstanding 2018 season at Stanford, Little seemed on his way to becoming a top-10 draft pick in the 2020 draft but missed most of the 2019 season with a torn ACL. He then opted out of the 2020 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the Jags still took a flyer on him, and although he had to way for his chance to start, he could end up being the team's long-term answer at left tackle if he fares well during Cam Robinson's suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy.

You could argue that Little lost the battle for the right tackle job to Jawaan Taylor last season but he came close to winning despite the fact that he was lining up on the right side for the first time in his career. Now at his more natural spot at left tackle, Little will have the chance to show what he brings to the table.

Here's the thing, if Little plays well, the Jaguars' brass will probably move on from Robinson next offseason, which would in turn free up a bit over $17.75 million in cap space. But if the falters, the coaching staff will probably plug Robinson back at left tackle.

While Robinson isn't a bad player, Little probably has a bigger ceiling. It's up to show he can do a good job of keeping Lawrence's jersey clean.