Jaguars sign massive extension that should strongly impact NFL Draft plans
In the not-so-quiet hours leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft, most news is all about new mock drafts and smokescreens surrounding each pick and every prospect. But the Jacksonville Jaguars are staying busy by re-signing their own. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Jaguars and DL DaVon Hamilton have agreed to terms on […]
In the not-so-quiet hours leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft, most news is all about new mock drafts and smokescreens surrounding each pick and every prospect. But the Jacksonville Jaguars are staying busy by re-signing their own.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Jaguars and DL DaVon Hamilton have agreed to terms on a three-year deal worth $34.5 million with incentives that can push the final number up to $36 million. The deal includes $23 million in fully guaranteed money.
The transaction is huge. Hamilton has been a big part of the Jaguars defense since he was drafted in 2020. Without an extension, he would've entered the 2023 season on a contract year. This way, the Jags can get ahead of the curve by extending him now.
The new deal for the 6-foot-4, 320-pound defensive tackle comes at a critical time, too. Heading into Thursday's first round of the Draft, many had considered iDL to be one of the team's top needs. Hamilton being extended for three seasons could change that. In 2022, he played 710 defensive snaps for Jacksonville.
At the very least, the move makes targeting a defensive lineman like Pittsburgh's Calijah Kancey or Clemson's Bryan Bresee at 24th overall much less likely. Instead, look for the Jaguars to add an edge rusher or defensive back if they do go defense.
That's where the team's top needs are. Now granted, the team could also opt for an offensive playmaker or even a lineman, depending on how the board falls. With a quarterback like Trevor Lawrence at the wheel and legitimate playoff hopes though, the Jaguars should stick to finding value over anything else. It's where they belong now.
That's why taking care of Hamilton's deal in a proactive fashion is very good news at times like these. The Jags' front office looks on top of things right now.
