Jacksonville Jaguars must consider trading for a pass rusher despite 6-2 record

If there were any doubts the Jacksonville Jaguars were a serious contender this season, there shouldn't be any left after they dismantled the Pittsburgh Steelers 20-10 on the road. They now hold the best record in the AFC and heading into their BYE with a 6-2 record, the best one they've posted since 1999. But as good as the Jags have been, they should still consider trading for a pass rusher before the Tuesday deadline.

Even though outside linebacker Josh Allen is having a breakout year and Travon Walker, the first overall pick in 2022, has made strides, the Jags could still make upgrades to their pass rush. It's true that they just got defensive DaVon Hamilton back and defensive end Dawuane Smoot should keep getting better after returning in Week 7. However, having Young or even Uche in the mix could increase the Jaguars' chances of making a deep playoff push.

Before Week 8, they ranked 22nd in the league with 16 sacks. Although sacks aren't the only way to measure a team's pass rush success, you'll probably agree that a sack tends to have a bigger impact than a quarterback pressure. After all, a quarterback can still make a play even if he's pressured. Meanwhile, a sack ends a play and generates negative yardage.

By trading for Young, the Jaguars would get a bookend pass rusher opposite Josh Allen. Also, defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell would have the flexibility to deploy Travon Walker in a three-point stance, where he's the most effective.

Before the regular season, Jacksonville made several attempts to bolster their pass rush. They hosted Jadaveon Clowney for a visit and showed interest in reuniting with Yannick Ngakoue before the NFL Draft. Moreover, they explored a potential trade for Minnesota Vikings defensive end Danielle Hunter.

The Vikes are no longer expected to move Hunter unless they get an offer that blows their mind. However, Josh Uche and Chase Young could still be available.