Without a doubt most would list linebacker as a top-3 need for the Jacksonville Jaguars heading into the offseason, which could point them in the direction of acquiring a starter in free agency. Most believe they would especially be smart to add a MIKE linebacker to move Myles Jack to a more natural spot whether that is to weak-side or strong-side linebacker.
Unfortunately, when looking at the top inside linebackers who are expected to be on the market like Joe Schobert and Blake Martinez, it may cost them a pretty penny. According to reports, both could be looking to average double-digit figures in the millions.
It's no longer Scho-time in Cleveland: LB Joe Schobert will hit the free agent market and won't be back with the #Browns, who aren't willing to meet his $10M-plus market price, source says https://t.co/XSupyDhHBo
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 29, 2020
Packers LB Blake Martinez seeking $10M per year on new deal https://t.co/tA882KdaU0
— The Packers Wire (@ThePackersWire) February 28, 2020
While the Jags’ salary cap is steadily increasing and has reached the $30 million-plus range, the question arises whether or not the Jags should spend this type of money at linebacker after making Myles Jack one of the highest-paid linebackers in the NFL. As of today, the young linebacker’s average of $14.2 million is the third-highest amongst inside linebackers.
With both Schobert and Martinez potentially coming into the mix with an average of $10 million or more, that would put their averages in the top-10 as well when looking at interior linebackers.
Figures provided by Over the Cap
While the Jags could afford it, this might be a lot of money to spend on a group outside both lines and the quarterback position. For that reason, maybe the Jags could look for a bargain free-agent like Nick Kwiatkoski of the Chicago Bears. Another name frequently mentioned is Cory Littleton of the Los Angeles Rams, however, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him command what Martinez and Schobert reportedly want, especially at 26 years of age.
Clearly, the cheaper route for the Jags would be to get a rookie who could start, but starting a rookie at inside linebacker could be a big task for a young player. Still, when looking at the price it would cost to draft a top-tier prospect like Oklahoma’s Kenneth Murray with the No. 20 overall pick or Ohio State’s Malik Harrison in the second round, it’s worth considering.
Obviously, this gives general manager Dave Caldwell a lot to consider heading forward.
Listen to the latest from Jags Wire’s Jags Wire’s James Johnson and Phil Smith on their podcast, Bleav in Jags. Subscribe on Apple podcasts, Google Play, or Spotify.
Ep. 5
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