What is the NFL's current defensive trend?

The NFL is increasingly adopting nickel packages with versatile slot cornerbacks to defend against modern offenses.

How did the Jacksonville Jaguars succeed defensively?

The Jaguars excelled at run defense by utilizing physical safeties and agile linebackers, rather than solely relying on the nickel trend.

What are the future concerns for the Jaguars' defense?

Key linebackers Devin Lloyd and Eric Murray are facing free agency, posing a challenge for retaining their defensive success.

Home / Sports / Jaguars Defy NFL Trends: Run Defense Shines

Jaguars Defy NFL Trends: Run Defense Shines

23 Jan

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Summary

NFL defenses increasingly use nickel packages with hybrid cornerbacks.
The Jaguars ranked ninth in sub-package rate but excelled defensively.
Key linebackers Lloyd and Wingard face uncertain futures with the team.

Jaguars Defy NFL Trends: Run Defense Shines

The National Football League is experiencing a significant trend towards nickel defensive packages, featuring hybrid slot cornerbacks adept at both pass coverage and run support. This innovation aims to counter offenses that have increasingly targeted the middle of the field and utilize lighter defensive boxes.

Teams like the Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks have successfully employed these versatile defensive backs. Defensive coordinators often see the nickel cornerback as a crucial third linebacker, capable of defending the run from lighter alignments and playing closer to the ball on every snap.

However, the Jacksonville Jaguars have forged a different path to defensive success. Despite ranking ninth in the league in sub-package rate, they led the NFL in fewest rushing yards allowed per game and were second in yards per carry. This was achieved through a combination of physical safeties, agile linebackers Devin Lloyd and Foyesade Oluokun, and strong edge rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker.