Doug Pederson doesn't see Jacksonville Jaguars making big acquisition but they should
The Jacksonville Jaguars did a good job of restocking their roster in free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft. However, some position groups could still use a boost. Thus, it would be a good idea to add a veteran or look at another team's roster before training camp even though head coach Doug Pederson doesn't see it happening.
Pederson told the local media on the first day of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) that they're always looking to improve but he doesn't think the Jags would only make a move if it moves the needle.
"We're always trying to improve, whether it's schematically or positionally or personnel," Pederson said.
"We're always looking and it's something that we'll take a look at but every roster is pretty much set at this stage of the game, so it has to be something that would have to be pretty enticing to bring someone onto your roster, which means you'd have to let somebody go. And that's a hard thing to do. It's about assignments and getting guys up to speed", Pederson said.
The Jaguars entered the draft with nine picks but came out with 13 players. They then signed 10 players that didn't get their name called on Draft Day and recently signed an intriguing tight end talent in Sammis Reyes.
It definitely makes sense for Jacksonville to see what they have in their young players before they look for outside help but there are few areas on the roster that could use upgrades regardless. Here's Pederson's whole exchange with the media in case you want to give it a look.
The Jacksonville Jaguars must address a few needs before training camp
If none of the Jaguars' young cornerbacks separates himself from the bunch, it would be a good idea to bring in a veteran to compete with Tre Herndon for the nickel job. Although Herndon has been serviceable in the past, he wasn't particularly great last season, giving up a 68.9 percent completion rate and 13. 5 yards per catch.
Similarly, the Jags should consider bolstering their pass rush. Outside linebacker Travon Walker is expected to make strides in Year 2 and the team's brass will try to get rookies Tyler Lacy and Yasir Abdullah as much work as possible in the summer. However, it wouldn't hurt to bring in a veteran presence such as Frank Clark, Yannick Ngakoue, or Melvin Ingram to round out their rotation.
Left guard is another position that could use some help. The Jaguars will probably plug Tyler Shatley in while Ben Bartch recovers from the knee injury he suffered last year. But if he hasn't fully recovered but the time training camp rolls and neither Cole Van Lanen nor Cooper Hodges don't show enough, the front office should look at options outside the building.
As Pederson noted, good teams are looking for ways to get better and it makes sense for the Jaguars to evaluate their roster before they make any moves. On the other hand, they can't wait until the offseason starts addressing the needs they currently have.