5 Jaguars players who could lose snaps to rookies in 2024

The Jacksonville Jaguars selected nine players in the 2024 NFL Draft. Of the bunch, only wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. — their first-round pick — will probably have a starting job come Week 1. That said, things could change as the season progresses.

After all, some of the players the Jags drafted may need a bit of acclimation period before they can contribute, but once they hit their stride, they should earn a role on their respective side of the ball. That means that a few veterans could lose snaps down the stretch, including the next five.

DaVon Hamilton, defensive tackle

Defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton was expected to have a breakout season in 2023. He got an extension last offseason and was among the players who impressed the most in training camp. Unfortunately, the player affectionately known as Ham suffered a non-football injury that held him back for most of the season.

Hamilton should be fully healthy in 2024, and he'll probably switch back to defensive tackle. He moved to defensive end last year but he'll be a much better fit inside in defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen's scheme.

But even if Hamilton gets back at full strength, he won't have a huge snap count. Back in 2022, he played 53 percent of the Jaguars' defensive snaps. Then, he was among the top interior players. In 2024, he could have a decreased role and even be phased out in favor of rookie Maason Smith.

It's hard to tell how the Jaguars' defensive line will look next season. Heck, they could even switch players based on weekly matchups but the coaching staff will try to thrust Smith onto the field as soon as possible. Jacksonville used a second-round pick on him and will want to see a return on their investment.

Add the fact that the Jags signed Arik Armstead in free agency, and Hamilton may take into a reserve role as the season passes.