The Jaguars’ linebacking is the defense’s strongest unit, headlined by Foyesade Oluokun and filled with talented youth consisting of Devin Lloyd, Chad Muma, and Ventrell Miller. I don’t expect to see much change as we turn the page to 2024. This is a great group that should only get better.
It’s time to look at the Jaguars’ linebacking group.
Under Contract
Foyesade Oluokun
Age: 28.
Experience: 6 seasons/98 appearances/75 starts
2023 Production: 173 combined tackles, 111 solo tackles, 2.5 sacks and 1 interception.
If Josh Allen didn’t exist, Foyesade Oluokun would no doubt be the Jaguars’ best player on defense. The star linebacker was just a few tackles shy of his third consecutive season as the NFL’s tackles leader. He’s as good now as he ever has been, becoming a leader on the defense and mentor to Devin Lloyd and Chad Muma.
Oluokun brings a hefty price tag with him into 2024 as his cap hit stands at nearly $22 million. His production and leadership, frankly, make it difficult to move on from him, no matter the price tag. His contribution to the defense is seemingly priceless.
Going into 2024, I expect another sensational season from Oluokun as he once again likely competes for the NFL’s tackles record. I’m sure another season of growth from Devin Lloyd will certainly hurt the veteran’s chances of the title, but that would be great news for Jacksonville.
Devin Lloyd
Age: 25.
Experience: 2 seasons/32 appearances/30 starts
2023 Production: 127 combined tackles, 75 solo tackles, zero sacks and zero interceptions.
The end of 2022 was a bit of a disappointment after a promising start to Devin Lloyd's rookie campaign. Lloyd took the adversity in stride, however, turning in a solid second season, collecting 127 tackles and seven pass break-ups. His seven PBUs ranked second among all NFL linebackers, only trailing former Jaguar Quincy Williams.
With a marked improvement from year one to year two, we shall see what is in store for Lloyd’s third season. His improvement in the run-game is especially of note. Pro Football Focus graded Lloyd as the fourth best run-defender at the position. For a player as talented as Lloyd, the ceiling is the roof.
Chad Muma
Age: 24.
Experience: 2 seasons/33 appearances/4 starts
2023 Production: 15 combined tackles, eight solo tackles, zero sacks and zero interceptions.
Chad Muma saw copious amounts of playing time during the back half of his rookie season, replacing a struggling Devin Lloyd. His second season was a bit of a different story after Lloyd was able to piece it all together, turning in a strong 2023.
Where does this leave Muma? Well, it’s, for the most part, left him on the sidelines. In today’s NFL, nickel is the standard defensive package and Oluoukun’s 99.8% of snaps played certainly doesn’t help Muma’s case either. Regardless, the potential is still there for Muma as he is, statistically, one of Jacksonville’s most athletic players as he received a 9.77 RAS out of 10.0.
Ventrell Miller
Age: 25.
Experience: 1 season/0 appearances/0 starts
2023 Production: N/A.
Many had high hopes for Ventrell Miller, even in a crowded linebacker room. Sadly, disaster once again struck the former Florida Gators’ linebacker as his rookie season ended before it even started with an Achilles injury.
He faced some injury issues during his time at Florida as well, suffering a season-ending bicep in 2021. He also played through a broken foot for much of his 2022 season at Florida. If Miller can stay healthy, he can provide solid depth at the position with special teams utility.
Dequan Jackson
Age: 24.
Experience: 1 season/0 appearances/0 starts
2023 Production: Zero combined tackles, zero solo tackles, zero sacks and zero interceptions
A 2023 practice squad player, the Jaguars recently signed Dequan Jackson to Futures Contract earlier this year. Jackson has yet to see playing time, however, the team clearly sees something in the former Colorado State linebacker. I’d expect Jackson to remain a practice squad/depth piece in 2024.
Free Agents
Shaq Quarterman
Age: 26.
Experience: 4 seasons/63 appearances/0 starts
2023 Production: Two combined tackles, one solo tackles, zero sacks and zero interceptions.
Jacksonville native Shaq Quarterman found himself right at home with the Jaguars and saw a decent amount of playing time in seasons prior to 2023. With the emergence of Lloyd and consistency of Oluokun, there’s just not a lot of room for playing time at the linebacker position. I wouldn’t be shocked to see him brought back on a cheap deal, however, it shouldn't be on the top of the to-do list.
Caleb Johnson
Age: 25.
Experience: 3 seasons/48 appearances/0 starts
2023 Production: Five combined tackles, four solo tackles, zero sacks and zero interceptions
Caleb Johnson is a guy who’s shined at times. His special teams play is especially impressive. Jaguars’ special teams coordinator, Heath Farwell believes Johnson is one of the league’s best special teamers. Similarly to Quarterman, it wouldn’t shock me to see Johnson back in Jacksonville for his special teams play, however, he probably moves on. He should have no trouble latching on somewhere, simply for his special teams play.
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