7 things to watch on Jaguars defense during training camp

[ASFN Admin]

Training camp is quickly approaching for the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team will hold its first practice on July 29, and with that, there is always a lot to keep our eyes on during this time of the year.

Positional battles for playing time, roster spots, and pecking order on the depth chart take center stage, but the established starters being able to hit the ground running can be important to early-season success.

Moving on to the Jaguars' defense, here is what we'll be keeping an eye on at each position group over the next month-plus of action.

Defensive line​

• The Jaguars are positioned extremely well at the top of the defensive end depth chart with Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker leading the way. But at this heavily rotated position, Jacksonville is relying on several relatively inexperienced players to play key roles. Can the Jaguars find some pass rush consistency beyond Hines-Allen and Walker?
• Ruke Orhorhoro will be a player I'll be watching at defensive tackle. In acquiring Orhorhoro this offseason, he offers some needed pass rush upside at this position. Can he provide this unit with some added juice?

Linebacker​

• There is a lot to watch for here -- does Branson Combs end up pushing Ventrell Miller for the starting role next to Foye Oluokun?
• How does the rest of the depth chart shake out? Most teams keep five linebackers on the final roster, but the Jaguars did keep six last summer. If they do that again, that still likely leaves Jalen McLeod, Parker Hughes, and Yasir Abdullah competing for one spot.

Cornerback​

• Of course, once Travis Hunter is back on the practice field, all eyes will be on him. The Jaguars believe he can make a quick and high-level impact at cornerback.
• Can Jabbar Muhammad build off a very strong offseason? With his performance in the spring, Muhammad has positioned himself to make the final roster if he can build upon what's been established.

Safety​

• Caleb Ransaw unfortunately missed his rookie season due to injury, but he remains a player that the team is very bullish about. In Anthony Campanile's defense that often utilizes three safeties, Ransaw's ability to hit the ground running will be important.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 7 things to watch on Jaguars defense during training camp

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