1 surprising player who could make or break Jaguars’ 2024 NFL season

The Jacksonville Jaguars are about to experience something truly remarkable. The AFC South title is within their grasp thanks to a potent offense led by Trevor Lawrence and a defense that has shown flashes of brilliance. Yes, the franchise quarterback and the dynamic skill players are frequently in the limelight. But Travon Walker, a rising star on the defensive line, may ultimately decide whether or not the squad wins.

The Jaguars So Far

Lawrence, who is only 24 years old, is still the franchise’s ray of hope. On the defensive side, edge rusher Josh Allen, who recorded 17.5 sacks in the previous campaign, is a rising star and a youthful leader. Recently, significant extensions were inked by both players to guarantee their futures in Jacksonville. With two of the team’s most audacious playoff victories under its belt and Super Bowl champion head coach Doug Pederson leading the charge, the groundwork for future success is in place.

Lawrence received a $275 million, five-year contract in June as compensation. Among them was a signing guarantee of $142 million. Huge expectations are attached to a deal like this, especially those related to the Super Bowl. Concerns exist, nevertheless, over Jacksonville’s ability to get a sufficient return on their investment. This is especially noteworthy given that Lawrence led quarterbacks in fumble losses (seven) and tied for fourth place in interceptions (14) during the previous season.

Regarding the team’s wide receivers, before to the draft this year, rookie Brian Thomas Jr. was well-liked. Last season, he scored 17 touchdowns. With touchdowns on 4.1 percent of his team’s pass attempts, he had the highest scoring efficiency of any receiver in his class. At LSU, Thomas shared goals with Malik Nabers, yet he still managed to accomplish this. This illustrates how the Jaguars’ offense might be affected by him.

Remember that the Jaguars finished with a 9-8 record the previous season, just missing out on the postseason. They will need exceptional performances from important players like Josh Allen and Trevor Lawrence if they are to bounce back and become contenders. To ensure that the squad plays to its greatest potential, a few players also need to keep improving.

This article will examine the unexpected player who could make or ruin the Jacksonville Jaguars’ chances of making the playoffs in the 2024 NFL season.

Travon Walker, EDGE

For every NFL prospect, being selected first overall is a dream come true. But it also means high expectations and a great deal of strain. The standards for first picks include frequently several Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, and possibly even induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. By some measures, Travon Walker’s NFL debut has been a little lackluster.

Walker, who was chosen first overall in 2022, was a formidable player in college. But Jacksonville’s move to a standup linebacker position labeled him as a developmental project. While this is to be expected for a top overall pick, it is acceptable for mid- or late-round selections.

The Jaguars were prepared to wait for Walker’s development, however, since they saw his potential. During his first season, Walker displayed promising moments. Despite this, he was essentially unremarkable, with one interception and 4.5 sacks.

During his sophomore year, Walker achieved notable progress. Five of the ten sacks he totaled came in the final four games of the season. This suggests a late-season uptick and role development for him. With their late-season success, the Jaguars may find that their patience is worthwhile. Walker may therefore still be at his best.

Shift back

Walker will resume playing with his hand in the ground in 2024 as part of Ryan Nielsen’s strategy as defensive coordinator. Returning to his college role, where he flourished, may result in higher output. Arik Armstead, a defensive tackle, will also be a key addition. Opposing offenses must pay notice to Armstead’s presence. He might allow Walker to take advantage of more one-on-one opportunities.