The 2023 season has been an up-and-down affair for the Jacksonville Jaguars to this point. They are currently 2-2 on the season heading into their Week 5 matchup with the Buffalo Bills in London. Things have not quite clicked for the team yet, as they look to defend their AFC South divisional title from last season.
A lot of people have pointed to the offense as taking a step back in the early going, but their defense has left something to be desired as well. The Jaguars are currently 21st in overall defensive grade at PFF with a 68.0 as their big issue is getting after the quarterback.
Jacksonville is in the bottom half of the league with only nine sacks through four games and is 30th in pass-rushing grade with a 61.2. The Jaguars have an emerging star pass rusher in Josh Allen, leading the team with 6.0 sacks, and used the No. 1 pick on Travon Walker in the 2022 NFL Draft, who has 2.0 sacks.
But, they aren’t getting consistent pressure, as evidenced by their PFF grades. Looking to cement their status as a rising playoff contender in the AFC, it would behoove the Jaguars to bolster their pass rush ahead of the trade deadline.
That is exactly what Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has suggested that they do. Knox named the Jaguars as a potential suitor for Minnesota Vikings pass rusher, Danielle Hunter. Given where the Vikings’ season is heading at 1-3, it would not be surprising if they eventually decided to become sellers.
“The Texans could look to add Hunter to help spark a surprise playoff run. The 2-2 Jacksonville Jaguars may also want to consider boosting their pass rush before the deadline.
While the Jaguars started to find their groove in Week 4, they did not look like legitimate contenders over the first three weeks and have struggled to pressure opposing passers. Jacksonville ranks in the bottom 10 leaguewide in both sacks (nine) and quarterback hits (21).”
Hunter would instantly improve what has been an underwhelming pass rush to this point. He would be an excellent bookend for Allen and turning 29 later in October, he can be a long-term addition to this defense.
In four games this season, Hunter has already recorded 5.0 sacks and 13 total pressures. That would put him second behind Allen, who has 15, quickly turning what has been a weakness into a strength for the Jaguars.
