5 not-so-secret weapons on the Jaguars roster that will turn heads in 2023

No. 2 Not-so-secret Jaguars weapon that will surprise in 2023: Travon Walker, OLB

Depending on whom you ask, outside linebacker Travon Walker will enter the 2023 season with lots of expectations or not nearly enough. What's true is that the Jaguars will need him to step up and make a leap in Year 2 if the want to prevent opposing offenses from moving the ball at ease. The good news is that it looks like Walker is poised to make strides.

Back in college, Walker played multiple roles on defense but he hardly ever rush the passer from a three-point stance. Nevertheless, his athleticism made helped him skyrocket across big boards ahead of the 2023 daft. In fact, the Jags could've gone with the more NFL-ready Aidan Hutchinson but bet on Walker's athleticism.

Walker was asked to switch to outside linebacker full-time last year. This turned an already steep transition into a tougher challenge. The Georgia native displayed flashes at times but finished his rookie season with a modest 3.5 sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble. Fine numbers but not precisely what you expect from the No. 1 overall pick.

Having more familiarity with the system and his 'new' position should allow Walker to unleash his potential in Year 2. Also working in his favor is that he will more often play with his hand in the groud, where he's at his best. While an improvement of seven/eight sacks seems reasonable, don't be shocked if he gets to 10 next season.