The Jacksonville Jaguars caught a lot of heat for letting key contributors (Travis Etienne, Devin Lloyd) walk in free agency and not doing nearly enough to replace them. But part of the decision not to take a big swing was that the Jags already had several players ready to take on a bigger role.
Some of these players were either held back by injuries or needed time to hone their skills. Regardless of the reason, the following five are in a position to become household names in Duval.
LeQuint Allen Jr., Jaguars running back
From the get-go, LeQuint Allen Jr. carved out a niche as a blocking specialist as a rookie. Moreover, the former Syracuse Orangeman showed potential as a pass-catcher. That kind of skill set could help him get a bigger role next season.
Allen played 23 percent of the offensive snaps last year. Even with Bhayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez in the mix, the sophomore running back has done enough to get more opportunities to make plays.
Tanner Koziol, Jaguars tight end
Even though Nate Boerkircher was a higher pick (Round 2), it was Tanner Koziol who turned heads in the offseason program. Sure, Boerkircher was held out as a precautionary measure because of a minor injury, but Koziol made the most of his absence.
The former Houston Cougar made plays in nearly every practice, putting his 6-foot-7 frame on full display. Even if his dearth of blocking skills limits his playing time early in his career, his ability to reel in contested catches should help him earn a role in the red zone.
Emmanuel Pregnon, Jaguars offensive lineman
Even though contact isn't allowed and players can't wear pads on Organized Team Activities, Emmanuel Pregnon managed to stand out because of his size, power, and explosiveness.
There's still a long way to go, but Pregnon has lived up to his draft billing. He probably won't be a Week 1 starter, but he should get his chance as the year progresses. Once he does, the former Oregon Duck will not look back.
Caleb Ransaw, Jaguars safety
Caleb Ransaw was making a bid for a starting job before he suffered a season-ending injury in 2025. It must definitely sting, but the former Tulane Green Wave didn't stop grinding. Instead, he spent his time studying and recovering.
Unlike last year, Ransaw may not vie for a starting job in training camp because Antonio Johnson and Eric Murray are firmly entrenched at the top of the depth chart. That said, defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile likes to use three safeties, so the Harvest, Alabama native could still get ample playing time. That will, in turn, allow him to showcase his playmaking skills.
Danny Striggow, Jaguars defensive end
The Jaguars lacked a No. 3 pass rusher behind Travon Walker and still don't have one ahead of training camp. Not surprisingly, they've been urged to add a veteran (guilty as charged). But the team's brass has been reluctant because they have a young, albeit unproven group of pass rushers looking for a chance to make an impression.
Danny Striggow and B.J. Green II flashed potential after going undrafted last year. Jacksonville also added Wesley Williams and Zach Durfee in the 2026 NFL Draft. All of them have intriguing traits, but Striggow could end up separating himself from the bunch.
Despite limited opportunities, Striggow managed to produce at Minnesota. With more time to work on his craft, he's in a position to make a leap in Year 2. While other pass rushers could get snaps as part of a rotation, Striggow could get that coveted No. 3 job.
