SI.com's John Shipley calls LB Devin Lloyd the biggest defensive "winner" this offseason among Jaguars. "He looked like he got noticeably bigger in terms of muscle mass," Shipley writes. "Lloyd looked and sounded significantly more confident and aggressive as well, which could be the key to him having a breakout season."
HC Doug Pederson in May: “I think Devin's had a really good offseason. Obviously, Year 3, new system so how fast can he learn it. But I think, too, seeing himself on film, just continuing to get better and improving. You're seeing that out of him."
Black and Teal blog in May, on new DC Ryan Nielsen and his scheme: "One big difference between him and his predecessor is that Nielsen puts heavy emphasis on fundamentals and technique. On top of that, he'll be making the switch to a 4-3 defense. Devin Lloyd should be among the players who benefit the most. ... Lloyd played a more reactive role under Caldwell. With Nielsen in the fold, he'll play closer to the line of scrimmage and will be bringing the heat on the edges more frequently."
Lloyd has 0 sacks through two NFL seasons after delivering 16.5 across three starting college years (including one limited to five games by COVID).
More pass-rushing would clearly enhance his fantasy outlook. Beyond the sacks, Lloyd's 43 tackles for loss at Utah displayed his ability to make plays coming forward. Lloyd spent a significant portion of his college career playing off the edge.
The former first-round pick appears well set up to put it all together in his third NFL season and could finish the year among the top 15 fantasy LBs.
After a lackuster rookie year that found him ranking just 45th among LBs in fantasy points per game, Lloyd rebounded to reach the top 30 in both points per game and total points in 2023.
He carries upside into the top 15, though, if he's ready to add big plays to the mix -- especially in leagues that score tackles for loss.
Lloyd's rookie deal runs through 2025, with a team option coming up next offseason. He's worth chasing now in dynasty before a potential breakout campaign.
The Jaguars team defense would win if Lloyd gets in position to make more big plays. This is a talented unit with upside beyond last year's No. 19 finish among fantasy defenses.
Lloyd sits a modest LB28 in our current LB rankings, but don't be surprised if he rises through the summer. We've never doubted the talent. And it sounds like this year might combine the benefits of experience with an improved role.
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