5 players the Jaguars must make room for on the final 53-man roster
No. 2 player the Jaguars must make room for on the roster: Jeremiah Ledbetter, DL
Some players need more time to hit their stride than others. Others are stuck at the bottom of the depth chart and just need a chance to prove what they can do. You could argue that defensive end Jeremiah Ledbetter has encountered both situations throughout his career.
A fourth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2017, Ledbetter has earned an opportunity to show what he brings to the table in Jacksonville. After one season in Motor City, the former Arkansas Razorback was waived in 2018 and later claimed by the Tampa Bay Buccanneers.
Ledbetter was released again in 2019 and picked up by the Baltimore Ravens. He didn't spend much time with them and returned to the Bucs, this time in their practice squad. He joined the Arizona Cardinals in 2021 and later the Jaguars.
Although Ledbetter originally landed on the practice squad, he was later signed to the active roster and appeared in one game. He's honed his skills and is ready to make an impact. Here's a sample of what the veteran can do.
Man… check the get off and burst from Jags NG Jeremiah Ledbetter to help cause the fumble here. (Yes I know he was let free but still impressive!) pic.twitter.com/YfTLVZUBJs
— Alex King (@AKing_Evals) August 19, 2023
Currently, defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton is dealing with a non-football back injury. While he will return to the building before the 2023 season begins, it's not a given he'll be ready for the opener. If Ham does miss time, the Jaguars will need to lean on a combination of Ledbetter and fellow defensive end Adam Gotsis. Based on what Ledbetter has shown, it looks like he'll be ready when his number is called.