Doug Pederson fired defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell and many coaches when the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2023 NFL season ended prematurely. Two weeks ago, the Jaguars hired Ryan Nielsen, the former Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator.
The Falcons’ defense improved significantly under Nielsen, tripling their sack total and limiting opponents to fewer scores and overall yardage each game. Nielsen hopes to bring the same success to the Jaguars’ defensive unit.
What defensive free agents could follow their former defensive coordinator down south?
Calais Campbell
Calais Campbell could finish off his career in familiar territory with the Jaguars in 2024. The 37-year-old defensive end has bounced around throughout his career, with a stint in Jacksonville from 2017-2019. Campbell is still playing at a high level, registering 56 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 12.5 stuffs, one forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 2023. The tackle could add a veteran presence in the trenches for Jacksonville.
Bud Dupree
Bringing back Josh Allen will be a top priority for the Jaguars this offseason, but the position group could use quality depth, as well. Outside linebacker Bud Dupree could be the perfect player to throw in the mix with Allen and Travon Walker.
Dupree concluded the 2023 season with 39 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, 9.5 stuffs, two caused fumbles, and three passes defensed. The former first-round pick would be a cheap way to add depth to the linebacker corps, which might lose K’Lavon Chaisson to free agency this year.
Jeff Okudah – Cornerback Jeff Okudah is among Atlanta’s top free agents this year. Okudah finished 11 games with 44 tackles, three stuffs, and three passes defended. With Tre Herndon about to hit free agency, Okudah might be an intriguing option to boost the secondary defense.
