Josh Allen of the Jacksonville Jaguars reacts during the first half of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at EverBank Stadium on December 17, 2023, in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Courtney Culbreath/Getty Images.)Getty Images
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2023 season was filled with ups and downs. An 8-3 start faded as losses piled up, and the Trevor Lawrence-led club finished 1-5 in the final six weeks of the season. After falling short of a postseason berth, the Jaguars have completely shifted their focus to making the necessary adjustments in the offseason.
What are the Jaguars’ primary priorities heading into the 2024 season?
To keep or not to keep? Calvin Ridley
Calvin Ridley’s future with the team affects more than simply the receiving room. When the Jaguars acquired the then-suspended receiver in 2022, they agreed to surrender a conditional draft pick based on playing time and Ridley’s standing with the team in 2024. If the Jaguars extend Ridley, they will give up their second-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons. Given the wideout’s playing time and further incentives in 2023, the Falcons will receive at least a third-round pick.
If the organization decides to move on from the former Falcon, finding a talented receiver in the draft or in free agency becomes a primary priority.
Reach an agreement with Josh Allen.
Edge rusher Josh Allen made the most of his contract year, recording a franchise-high 17.5 sacks. The seventh overall pick in 2019 has established himself as a key member of Jacksonville’s defense and is the team’s top free agent.
The Jaguars have two options: franchise Allen or sign him to a long-term contract. General manager Trent Baalke made it obvious that the team is eager to negotiate an agreement with its best defensive player this offseason.
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Strengthen the offensive line.
The Jaguars must update their offensive line. Travis Etienne Jr. had a solid season, but the running back had to work hard to break tackles and get yardage. As the season came to a close, Trevor Lawrence’s injuries piled up as he took hard hit after hit.
Adding to the offensive line will be critical in improving the run game while also protecting Lawrence. The Jaguars will most likely draft a lineman early this year, but acquiring a veteran wouldn’t hurt either.
Right guard Robert Hunt’s name has come up in the hunt. With the Miami Dolphins way over the wage cap and yet needing to extend Christian Wilkins, Hunt might become available and immediately strengthen the Jaguars’ roster.
