Jacksonville Jaguars: The Case For Re-Signing Calvin Ridley and Josh Allen in 2024

As the 2023 season unfolds, the Jacksonville Jaguars face a pressing decision that could influence their future trajectory. Two of their prominent players, receiver Calvin Ridley and outside linebacker Josh Allen, are on the verge of entering the free agency market in 2024. 

Their potential departure could leave a significant void in the team's offensive and defensive strategies. As a result, the Jaguars must plan their moves wisely to secure their core lineup while being mindful of their financial constraints.

The 2024 free agency market is becoming highly competitive, with several high-profile players across various teams set to hit the open market. Ridley and Allen could be the Jaguar's most talented players that become free agents next year.

Why it makes sense for the Jaguars to re-sign OLB Josh Allen

The NFL's demand for pass rushers and wide receivers remains high, and the 2024 free-agency market is no different. Several prominent pass rushers, including Brian Burns of the Carolina Panthers, are expected to be available. These players and Allen have the versatility to line up in either 3-4 or 4-3 schemes, making them valuable assets for any team. 

Sweat's recent contract will hit the Bears against the cap at an average of nearly $25 million a year over the next four until 2027; Allen will probably be closer to a $27 million -28 million annual average. A Nick Bosa-like contract could work in Jacksonville, with $94 million of the $170 million he's owed being paid out in his final two years with a low dead cap hit. 

Josh Allen has been the Jaguars' leading pass rusher for the past couple of seasons. The team had exercised the fifth-year option of his rookie contract last offseason, hinting at their intent to retain him. With a stellar performance in 2023, Allen could strengthen his case for a long-term commitment from the Jags.

Allen has been instrumental in the Jaguars' defense and a true J-Villian. As the team's best pass rusher, he can significantly influence the team's defensive strategy and performance. His strong performance in 2023 could solidify his position within the team and increase his chances of a long-term commitment from the Jaguars.

Heading into Week 10, Allen is tied for third sacks in the NFL in sacks (nines) and hurries (10). His 26 pressures are the second-most in the league and has a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 89.2. Just a reference, star legendary outside linebacker Khalil Mack has a PFF grade of 88.9. 

My take is to sign him for five years, $135 million, $65 million guaranteed, team-friendly back-loaded contract, and honor him with the deserved captain patch. 

What should the Jacksonville Jaguars do with the explosive Calvin Ridley?

On the receiver front, the 2024 free-agent class appears promising. Alongside Calvin Ridley, receivers like Tyler Boyd, Gabriel Davis, and Mike Evans are also slated to hit the market. While some of them might end up re-signing with their current teams, the market still presents enticing options for teams looking to bolster their receiver lineup. But the most intriguing receiver expected to hit the market is Trevor Lawrence's favorite target at Clemson, Tee Higgins.

Ridley, a first-round pick in the 2018 draft, has been a consistent performer since his early days with the Atlanta Falcons. Despite a brief hiatus in 2021 due to personal reasons, Ridley has bounced back impressively. His performance in training camp indicates a promising 2023 season ahead, and his potential impact on the Jaguars' offense cannot be overstated. This is why retaining him could provide the team with a reliable and experienced receiver option.

Ridley will be looking for a minimum of a Christian Kirk deal, four years, $72 million, with $37 million guaranteed. As high as that is, Kirk has delivered on it, and it is fair for Ridley. However, Kirk leads the team in all receiving stats, not Ridley. Kirk is on pace for 86 receptions, 1,040 yards, and six touchdowns while Ridley would end with 66 receptions, 902 yards, and four touchdowns at his current pace.

The burn is if the Jaguars re-sign Ridley, they must forfeit a second-round pick in 2024 to the Falcons as a condition of the trade. So now you are looking at a No. 1 receiver contract and a second-round pick for a WR2. Jacksonville could use that selection in someone like Clemson linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. next year.

Tee Higgins, the compadre of Lawrence and Etienne, would fit perfectly in the Jaguars offense. Allowing Kirk and Zay Jones to be the playmakers while he serves as the big-body possession receiver. Unlike Evans and the other upcoming free-agent targets, Higgins is not bolstering his free-agent status and is having a down year; this could be more advantageous to the Jaguars and be a better value.

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Don't forget about the Prince and Hair Apparent: Trevor Lawrence will be eligible for a new deal

The Jacksonville Jaguars' financial position allows them to retain both Calvin Ridley and Josh Allen, but they must also account for other contractual obligations. For instance, quarterback Trevor Lawrence is eligible for a contract extension in 2024. Similarly, cornerback Tyson Campbell, safety Andre Cisco, and offensive lineman Walker Littler — all ascending players — will enter the last year of their respective rookie deals.

While Ridley and Allen should be their immediate priority, the Jaguars must also plan for Lawrence's potential extension, which could take up a significant amount of cap space down the road. When everything is said and done, he could have signed a monster deal and become the highest-paid player in league history but that's a discussion for another time. 

This is why the decision to re-sign Ridley and Allen will be strategic for the Jaguars. Both players have shown consistent performances and have the potential to influence the team's future trajectory.

As the 2023 season unfolds, the Jaguars' management will closely monitor Ridley and Allen's performances, which could ultimately influence their decision. The future of the franchise hangs in the balance, making the 2023 season a crucial one in the team's history. 

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