The Jaguars have roughly $90 million in cap space. While they won’t be using it all in free agency, they’ll likely try to use plenty of it.
One name that has emerged now that the legal tampering window has opened is Jaguars defensive lineman Malik Jackson. A defensive end in Denver’s 3-4 alignment, Jackson potentially could become a Michael Bennett-style presence in Jacksonville, playing outside on running downs and sliding inside on passing downs.
Regardless of whether they win the push for Jackson (other teams surely will be in play), the Jaguars have several targets, we’re told, for the first wave of free agency. The goal is to use free agency to make up for some draft-day misfires in the years prior to the arrival of G.M. Dave Caldwell and coach Gus Bradley.
The Jaguars currently have a great, young nucleus of talent. If they can now add solid players who fit the culture and can provide leadership and performance, the Jaguars could be on the verge of becoming a true contender.
Regardless of what they do this week, look for them to retain some cash and cap space for re-signing key young players to long-term deals after the next regular season. At that point, quarterback Blake Bortles, receiver Allen Robinson, and linebacker Telvin Smith will be eligible for new deals.