Arguably the most sought after defender on the market, defensive lineman Malik Jackson has chosen where he will sign his lucrative new contract. The Jacksonville Jaguars, in a bid to improve their struggling defense from last season, used their vast amount of salary cap space to good effect.
The #Jaguars deal for DL Malik Jackson is 6 years, $90M with $42M guaranteed, source said. So, wow.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2016
Here is some recap information on who they’re getting.
"“Arguably the hottest commodity on the market, Malik Jackson enters free agency a dominant defensive lineman just now entering his prime. He experienced a breakout year in his fourth season with the Broncos, collecting five sacks while grading out as one of the best at his position, per Pro Football Focus. The versatile 26-year-old can play all along the line, and excels both in run defense and at rushing the passer. In short: Jackson is about to get paid.”"
Jackson was arguably the top free agent available. So him going to the team with the most money shouldn’t be a surprise. The key will be how he fits in with the Jaguars defense. Their scheme is based in a 4-3 alignment, whereas Jackson made his name last year in the 3-4 of Wade Phillips. Still, his pass rushing ability as a big 300 lbs man likely means he’ll shift to a three-technique defensive tackle position.
GRADE: A
It’s clearly a lot of money but the Jaguars can afford it. Their roster is in such a place where this sort of move can have a profound impact in a positive way. Malik Jackson is a dynamic force up front. Pair him with Dante Fowler, assuming he lives up to his billing, and that Jacksonville pass rush is in business.