With training camp drawing closer, we will be highlighting the one big question that faces each of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ position groups.
Next up are the defensive tackles, where the Jaguars need more consistent pass rush production this season.
Can the Jaguars create more pressure from the interior?
Arik Armstead provided that pass-rush presence for a good portion of last season. Through 12 games, Armstead totaled 41 quarterback pressures, the third-highest mark among defensive tackles during that stretch. He was also near the top of his position group in sacks.
However, after sustaining a hand injury, Armstead’s production dipped down the stretch, shedding light on the lack of pass-rush depth at this position. DaVon Hamilton is a run-first defender, while Maason Smith’s role decreased later in the year.
That left Matt Dickerson and Dawuane Smoot when he was moved inside to provide some juice. Those two combined for a modest 24 pressures on the year.
This season, Armstead regaining that 2025 first-half form will be critical for the Jaguars. The addition of Ruke Orhorhoro can potentially provide a pass rush boost as well.
Sticky coverage on the back end and Anthony Campanile throwing different looks at opponents can all buy the pass rush additional time to get home as well.
As a collective defense, the Jaguars ranked a modest 18th in pressure rate in 2025 and 27th in sacks last season. Improved pass rush consistency can go a long way in improving Jacksonville’s standing in those categories.
When the defensive tackles are able to generate steady push up the middle, every other defender on the field benefits from that. It is the quickest way to slow any offensive play.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Big question for Jaguars defensive tackle unit ahead of training camp
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire / Jaguars Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire | USA TODAY Network
