Jaguars are counting on Travon Walker to keep ascending in Year 3

Outside linebacker Travon Walker took a step forward after a quiet rookie season, registering 10 sacks in 2023. Head coach Doug Pederson expects the first overall pick in 2022 to keep improving in Year 3.

Pederson told the local media on the first day of mandatory camp that he's pleased with Walker's growth, pointing out that the Jags will be counting on him to step up as a leader next season.

"He's been good, He's been another bright spot on defense. He's excited about the new scheme," Pederson said. "He's another young player that will be counted on in a leadership role on defense and amongst the team. Just a great kid, humble, hardworking, wants to improve, wants to get better, wants to learn, and he's still growing. And that's the exciting part about him."

Having drafted Trevor Lawrence the year prior, the Jags could've taken several paths with the No. 1 overall pick in 2022. They went with Walker, a somewhat raw prospect coming out of college. In Jacksonville, he made the switch to standup linebacker after mostly playing with his hand in the ground at Georgia.

Walker ended his rookie season with just four sacks but showed considerable growth in 2023. He's expected to keep improving in Year 3. Here's Pederson's full exchange with the media.

The Jaguars will want more from Travon Walker in 2024

Being drafted first overall is probably a dream come true for most players but it also comes with expectations. In Walker's case, he took a step forward in 2023 but the Jacksonville Jaguars surely expect more from him. He should be able to deliver.

Defensive end Arik Armstead, who joined the Jags in free agency, says Walker can be the best edge rusher in the league. Armstead has played with several talented pass rushers, including Nick Bosa, throughout his career, so his endorsement is one that carries plenty of weight.

The talent is certainly there. Walker has the physical traits to develop into a premier pass rusher. And to ensure it happens, the Jaguars' brass is putting him in a position to succeed. For starters, the Georgia native will be switching back to a three-point stance, where he's at his best. Moreover, defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen is known for his work with defensive linemen. He will help him hone his skills.

Last but not least, the Jaguars fortified the interior offensive line in the offseason. Armstead will prevent opposing offenses from devoting too many resources to stop Walker and Josh Allen on the edges.

When you take all this into account, it's reasonable for the Jaguars to expect Walker to take the next step in 2024.

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