Jaguars Set to Execute Two Key Transactions Before the 2024 NFL Trade Deadline
As the 2024 NFL trade deadline approaches, the Jacksonville Jaguars are poised to make two significant moves to bolster their playoff push. Sitting at the top of the AFC South and looking to solidify their status as legitimate Super Bowl contenders, the Jaguars are ready to address key areas of need through trades. With a young, talented roster led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence and an offense that has shown flashes of dominance, Jacksonville’s front office is eyeing strategic additions that could push them over the edge. Here’s a look at the two key transactions the Jaguars are expected to execute before the 2024 trade deadline.
1. Acquiring a Veteran Offensive Lineman
The Jaguars’ offensive line has been a point of concern throughout the 2024 season, particularly when it comes to pass protection. While the unit has done a decent job in opening up lanes for running back Travis Etienne, keeping Trevor Lawrence upright has been an issue. The Jaguars rank near the bottom of the league in sacks allowed, and with Lawrence being the franchise cornerstone, the team cannot afford to leave him vulnerable as they prepare for a deep playoff run.
To address this need, the Jaguars are reportedly targeting a veteran offensive lineman to shore up their protection. Rumors suggest that Jacksonville has had talks with teams that are in rebuilding mode, specifically eyeing players on expiring contracts. One name that has surfaced is New York Giants guard Mark Glowinski. With the Giants struggling in 2024 and likely looking to stockpile draft picks, Glowinski could be a perfect target for Jacksonville. His ability to play both guard and tackle would provide the Jaguars with versatility and depth along the offensive line.
Bringing in a veteran like Glowinski would not only help solidify the interior of the line but also provide valuable experience and leadership to a relatively young unit. With the protection issues largely stemming from inconsistent play on the interior, adding a player with Glowinski’s skill set could make a significant impact.
2. Trading for a Pass Rusher
The Jaguars’ defense has been solid in 2024 but lacks a true game-changing pass rusher outside of Josh Allen. While Allen has been productive, he has often faced double teams, leaving the rest of the defensive line struggling to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. If the Jaguars want to contend with high-powered offenses come playoff time, adding another dynamic pass rusher is a must.
Reports indicate that Jacksonville is in talks to acquire a pass rusher, with Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young being a prime target. Young, the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has had an up-and-down career due to injuries but remains a high-ceiling player when healthy. The Commanders, sitting at the bottom of the NFC East, may be looking to move Young, especially considering he’s in the final year of his rookie contract.
Adding Young to pair with Allen would immediately elevate the Jaguars’ pass rush to one of the most formidable in the league. Young’s ability to disrupt both the run and the pass would allow Jacksonville’s defense to be more aggressive, creating more turnover opportunities and helping to take pressure off the secondary.
A Playoff Push in the Making
With the AFC playoff race heating up, the Jaguars know that any weakness can be exploited by top-tier opponents. Addressing their offensive line and adding a pass rusher could be the moves that push them over the top. Both transactions, should they be completed, would represent a clear commitment by the Jaguars’ front office to go all-in for a deep playoff run in 2024.
The Jaguars have built a young, dynamic roster, but they know that winning in the NFL requires not just talent, but balance and depth. By adding a veteran offensive lineman and a pass-rushing threat like Chase Young, Jacksonville could position itself as one of the most complete teams in the league heading into the postseason. These two moves could make the difference between a solid playoff appearance and a legitimate Super Bowl run.