The Jacksonville Jaguars have held seven training camp practices up to this point, and as always during this time of the year, there’s a lot that’s taken place.
But what are the big takeaways up to this point in training camp? We selected one thing to know on each side of the football through the first week-plus of practices.
The play of the Jaguars’ pass rush unit
The Jaguars are looking for improved pass rush in 2026. Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker have the edge locked down, but there have been concerns about the interior, as well as a lack of depth, and analysts have claimed Jacksonville didn’t do enough to address the issue. Head coach Liam Coen and defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile seemingly have felt that they can develop their younger players, and added Ruke Orhorhoro for good measure, and so far, their instincts have been correct.
During training camp, particularly once the pads came on, the defense has excelled, and that includes the pass rush. In the last few days of practice, the pass rush has been able to all but shut down Trevor Lawrence, who otherwise has been performing well. Orhorhoro, Walker, and Hines-Allen have all turned in great plays. It’s still early, of course, but it’s a good sign; Campanile built the best run defense in the league in 2026, and if the pass rush is as good as it’s been looking so far, the defense as a whole could be an elite unit other offenses will fear. – Casandra Chesser
Jaguars’ running back room standing out
One of the biggest questions for the Jaguars heading into training camp was how Bhayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez would play, specifically to see if they could possibly measure up to Travis Etienne, who signed with the New Orleans Saints in free agency. Rodriguez was Jacksonville’s only veteran signing to serve as a replacement, a move which analysts roundly criticized, arguing that neither Rodriguez nor Tuten are up to the task.
The Jaguars will be feeling vindicated after training camp, then, as both turned in impressive performances. Tuten has made multiple big plays, and while Rodriguez didn’t get started until the pads came on, he has since been able to show off his physical running style a few times as well. That both have been successful against Jacksonville’s run defense – which was the best in the league last season – sends a strong statement. Head coach Liam Coen has insinuated that he will favor a committee-style approach in 2026, with Tuten and Rodriguez both getting regular playing time, and judging by their performance in training camp so far, the Jaguars run game is looking promising. – Casandra Chesser
Travis Hunter making plays right away
During his return to the practice field following last season’s knee injury, Hunter has seemingly hit the ground running in training camp. This includes an impressive day recently, when he came away with an interception and generated two explosive plays at wide receiver.
But beyond those flashes, both teammates and coaches have been impressed overall with what Hunter has been able to show.
“He’s a beast, man,” said Jourdan Lewis.
Jakobi Meyers said, “I just like watching him play.”
“He’s continuing to progress from a route, fundamentals, and technique standpoint, but also in knowledge of the offense and just the system in general,” said Grant Udinski.
Hunter is expected to take on a larger role on defense this season, but he will continue to be a factor on offense. Liam Coen recently highlighted what that role could look like.
According to ESPN’s Michael DiRocco, Hunter has played 64 snaps on defense in the 11-on-11 periods and 39 on offense.
Competition unfolding at linebacker
While the thought throughout the offseason was that Ventrell Miller would step into the starting role next to Foye Oluokun, Branson Combs has entered the mix and is pushing for those snaps.
“That’s a heated competition in that room,” said defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile.
Each linebacker brings a different element to the Jaguars’ defense. John Shipley of Jaguars on SI notes the plays in the run game that Miller has made throughout camp, while Combs has stood out as a coverage defender.
This is a camp battle that likely comes down to the wire before the Jaguars determine who the starter is. Also, with each player’s varying skill set, perhaps we see a rotation, with the in-game situation dictating who is on the field.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 4 major takeaways after 7 Jaguars’ training camp practices
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire / Jaguars Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire | USA TODAY Network
