NFL edge rusher Arden Key signed a new contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Key is coming off of a one-year contract for the 2021 season with the San Francisco 49ers.
The Jaguars have signed former 49ers DE Arden Key. Their busy free agency continues.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 30, 2022
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Arden Key, Jacksonville Jaguars, Agree to Contract
Arden Key is coming off his most successful NFL season. Key signed a one-year deal before the 2021 season with the Niners. He rewarded the Niners with his best season as a pro. The Niners did not start Key a single game last season. The defensive line rotation benefited from Key’s presence. Key played in 35% of the defensive snaps in San Francisco, which was the lowest of his career. He made the most of his opportunities though, rounding into an impact defensive end last season. Sacks is one of the most valued statistics and Key was able to contribute 6.5 for the Niners during the 2021 season. Maybe more importantly though, Key also tallied 17 quarterback hits and 19 hurries against opposing teams. In his limited action, Key rounded into a potent rotational rusher. The Niners defense has been perennially good and got the most out of Key.
Arden Key really needed to revitalize his career last season. Previously known as Oakland, the Raiders selected Key in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Key appeared in 37 games for the Raiders in both Las Vegas and Oakland. He managed just three sacks in his three years with the Raiders but did have 26 quarterback hits and 49 combined tackles. Key played in a large percentage of defensive snaps, averaging 48% for the Raiders. Unfortunately, Key was not able to have consistent production for the Raiders in his three years with the team. His production with the team was not poor but more was expected for a second-day draft pick. This led to his early release from the team, as he was cut before the 2021 season before the Raiders had to make a decision about extending him.
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