Jaguars pre-training camp 53-man roster predictions after re-signing Dawuane Smoot
• There will be carry over from last year on the roster
• This will be a make-or-break season for a handful of Jaguars players
Jaguars pre-training camp 53-man roster projection: Defense
Most of the Jaguars' starting lineup on defense from last year is returning in 2023. That should help several players make a leap in Year 2 in coordinator Mike Caldwell's system. More specifically, outside linebacker Josh Allen is poised to have a breakout season.
Similarly, Travon Walker, the No. 1 pick in last year's draft, is poised to make strides in his sophomore campaign. Having Dawuane Smoot back gives Jacksonville a pass-rush rotation. It will be up to 2020 first-round pick K'Lavon Chaison and rookie Yasir Abdullah to lessen the departure of defensive end Arden Key, who signed with the Tennessee Titans in free agency.
On the other hand, their defensive backfield looks pretty good despite the fact that they ranked outside the top 20 in Pro Football Focus' latest secondary rankings ahead of the regular season. As a matter of fact, cornerback Tyson Campbell and safety Andre Cisco should get lots of attention in 2023. Last but not least is the linebacker corps. With Chad Muma or Devin Lloyd slated to start next to veteran Foyesade Oluokun, the group could be a strength next season.
Defensive linemen (7): Roy Robertson-Harris, Adam Gotsis, Dawuane Smoot, DaVon Hamilton, Folorunso Fatukasi, Michael Dogbe, and Tyler Lacy
Outside linebackers (4): Josh Allen, Travon Walker, Yasir Abdullah, K'Lavon Chaisson
Middle linebackers (5): Foyesade Oluokun, Devin Lloyd, Shaquille Quarterman, Chad Muma, Ventrell Miller
Cornerbacks (6): Darious Williams, Tre Herndon, Tyson Campbell, Montaric Brown, Christian Braswell, Gregory Junior,
Safeties (5): Andre Cisco, Rayshawn Jenkins, Andrew Wingard, Erick Hallet II, Antonio Johnson