The pillars of the Jaguars’ 2024 defense: tackling, turnovers, disrupting ball movement, and relentless pursuit.
Following a disappointing season, the Jacksonville Jaguars underwent a significant overhaul within their defensive coaching staff. Instead of retaining Mike Caldwell, the 2024 defense will be under the guidance of Ryan Nielsen, formerly the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons.
Nielsen brings with him an impressive track record. In 2023, his defensive expertise played a crucial role in the Falcons’ remarkable improvement in stopping opposing offenses on third downs, rising from 31st in the NFL in 2022 to third in 2023, trailing only the Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos. Additionally, the Falcons doubled their sack count, escalating from 21 sacks to 42 in 2023, while also limiting opponents to an average of 321.1 yards per game, ranking tenth lowest in the league.
For the Jaguars’ defense in 2024, Nielsen has outlined similar objectives. During his introductory press conference on February 15, the new defensive coordinator emphasized the key focuses for the Jaguars’ defensive unit: tackling, takeaways, ball disruption, and pursuit.
Nielsen articulated to reporters, “You have to be a good tackling defense to be a good defense. Takeaways are the number one way to limit points. Ball disruption is making the offense play not on time. You know, we’re taking away a running lane, or making a ball bounce, or disrupting the quarterback. Then pursuit, keeping the ball inside, proper angles, running, and hitting. So that’s what we’re going to stress, that’ll be the first thing we talk about with the guys.”
Edge rushers Josh Allen and Travon Walker are poised to play pivotal roles, contingent upon Allen’s potential return. Allen is considered one of the premier free agents this offseason, following another impressive season comprising 66 tackles, 17.5 sacks, 8.5 stuffs, two forced fumbles, and an interception. Nielsen recognizes the significance of securing Allen’s return.
“When you’ve got a guy like that, you want him back, and I think that’s going to work out. I would be really excited if that works out, excited to work with him. I’ve heard nothing but great things, talked to Josh, and he’s been fantastic,” Nielsen expressed.
