Fansided

NFL free agency rumors: Jaguars interested in Calais Campbell

By Russell S. Baxter

Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

If it’s free agency, you can count on the Jaguars being in the news. Apparently, the franchise has its eyes on veteran defensive end Calais Campbell.

It’s been quite some time since we’ve seen the Jaguars in the playoffs. Since 2007, to be exact. It hasn’t been for a lack of trying, though, especially when it comes to the free-agent market. Last offseason, the team added the likes of defensive end Malik Jackson, free safety Tashaun Gipson, running back Chris Ivory and cornerback Prince Amukamara. Unfortunately, 2016 ended with a 3-13 mark. Head coach Gus Bradley lost his job before the season concluded.

The team may have failed in terms of wins and losses but its defensive unit certainly made some strides. Jacksonville finished sixth overall in terms of fewest yards allowed per game. That was quite the jump from the previous year, when it was ranked 24th in the NFL in the same category.

Now the franchise looks to raise its defensive game a bit more. Mike Klis of 9News reports that the AFC South cellar-dwellers are very interested in Arizona Cardinals veteran defensive end Calais Campbell.

Campbell’s one of the more complete players in the league and could line up inside or outside for the Jaguars. In nine seasons with the Cards, he’s totaled 56.5 sacks, three interceptions, eight forced fumbles and an equal amount of fumble recoveries. It’s the consistency that stands out. Campbell has started a minimum of 12 games and totaled at least five sacks in each of his last eight seasons in the desert.

More fansided.com: NFL power rankings: NFL head coaches

The 30-year-old pro celebrates a birthday in September and continues to produce at a high level. He finished 2016 with 53 tackles, eight sacks, three fumble recoveries and a pair of forced fumbles. And he would be an excellent addition to a team that could get better when it comes to stopping the run. Jacksonville finished 16th in the league in rushing defense. Campbell could change that in a big way.

Home/Jacksonville Jaguars