The 2016 season has come to an end and it is time to take stock of what has been a rather disappointing year for the Jacksonville Jaguars. While there were many moments throughout the year which were uncomfortable to watch, to put it nicely, there were some bright spots throughout this young roster this year. As the Jaguars department at Last Word on Sports we do our best to evaluate the Jaguars. Today, inside linebackers are under the microscope.
Despite a poor season, one of the more positive things to come out of Jacksonville this year was the play of their defense. The Jaguars ranked sixth best in total yards with only 5,147 given up on the season. They were also exceptional against the pass and ranked fifth, giving up only 215.3 yards per game. The linebacker group played a good role in the development of this defensive unit and seem to almost have the right balance of upcoming stars and seasoned veterans; something that can keep Jaguars fans optimistic for next season.
Jacksonville Jaguars Inside Linebackers End of Season Evaluation
Hayes Pullard
Hayes Pullard is the Jaguars second string inside linebacker but found playing time hard to come by this season. Pullard recorded five solo tackles for the Jaguars in 2016 but only played a total of 28 snaps during the season. Playing behind veteran linebacker Paul Posluszny, Pullard has had limited opportunities in Jacksonville since signing with the team in October 2015. Having said that, Pullard is only 24 and may still be able to prove himself to the Jaguars in the future.
Paul Posluszny
Like a fine wine, Paul Posluszny just gets better with age. ‘Poz’ had arguably his best year in the league and played over 1,000 snaps for the Jaguars during the 2016 season. Posluszny, who is entering the final year of his contract, recorded 97 solo tackles for the Jaguars and lead the team with 133 combined, leaving him 12th in the league for total tackles. The ten year veteran has been a defensive leader in the Jaguars locker room for a number of years now and his on field presence contributed to the improved play of the defence this season. Posluszny also recorded one interception in week three against the Baltimore Ravens and added 1.5 sacks during the season.
Overall Inside Linebacker Grade
The linebackers played an important role for the Jaguars in an improved year defensively. For that reason, the inside linebacker unit has earned themselves a respectable B grade evaluation. The one area this unit could improve on going forward is forcing turnovers. The Jaguars ranked rock bottom in defensive turnovers forced, but if that can change in 2017, this unit could propel the Jaguars towards a playoff challenge. With Posluszny on an expiring contract, it will be interesting to see if other linebackers are given more of an opportunity for the Jaguars next season.
