Earlier this offseason, we took a look at the depth chart predictions for each spot on the offensive side, starting with the quarterbacks, receivers, running backs, tight ends, and offensive line. Now with training camp set to start late this month it’s time to move on to the defense.
To kick off our first preview on the defensive side we’ve decided to break up the line unlike we did the offensive line due to there being various movable pieces within the unit. Here are all of the players who will be listed primarily as defensive tackles as Todd Wash is expected to utilize the 4-3 as we’ve seen in the past.
| Defensive tackle (three-technique) | Nose tackle (one-technique) | |
| No. 1 | Taven Bryan | Al Woods |
| No. 2 | Doug Costin | Abry Jones |
| No. 3 | DaVon Hamilton | |
| No. 4 | Dontavius Russell | |
| No. 5 | Brian Price |
*Note: Defensive ends Rodney Gunter and Dawuane Smoot could see time on the inside as three-techniques, too.
The Jags’ 2020 defensive tackle group will look significantly different with Calais Campbell and Marcell Dareus gone. Taking Darius’ place could be veteran nose tackle Al Woods, who brings 11 years of experience to the table. Behind him is a serious amount of depth with the team’s longest-tenured veteran, Abry Jones, third-round pick DaVon Hamilton, and the Jags’ last pick from 2020, Dontavius Russell, filling out the next few spots.
Lastly, there is Brian Price, who joined the Jags in October of last year. While he’s a journeyman player, he’s an option for the Jags’ practice squad, which could see a lot of action when considering the unknowns of COVID-19.
At the three technique position, it looks like Taven Bryan is the guy after an under-the-radar season in 2019. He was able to accumulate 33 total tackles and two sacks while acquiring the Jags’ second-highest Pro Football Focus grade on defense (75.6). Hopefully, for the front office’s sake, he’ll continue to develop as he hasn’t quite reached the level of play they would like out of a first rounder though he’s slowly getting there.
Taking snaps behind him in the interior could be two players who we’ll be listing with the defensive ends in Rodney Gunter and Dawuane Smoot, both of whom have the ability to play inside. Gunter is basically expected to be utilized like Campbell, while fans witness Smoot play all over the line in 2019 and have his most productive season in terms of sacks with six.
The Jags will also have undrafted free agent Doug Costin from Miami (Ohio) joining the mix. He’s projected to be a practice squad player at best, but a strong preseason could land him on the roster as the Jags could clearly use some help behind Bryan.