Jaguars Decline Fifth-Year Option on Linebacker Devin Lloyd

The Jacksonville Jaguars have declined the fifth-year option on linebacker Devin Lloyd, making him set to become a free agent after the 2025 season. Lloyd, a 2022 first-round pick, showed early promise and has posted solid tackle numbers, but has struggled with consistency, particularly in pass coverage and positional assignments. This decision comes as the Jaguars undergo significant organizational changes, including a new head coach, general manager, and defensive coordinator, with a shift in defensive philosophy that could impact Lloyd's role. While Lloyd had his best season in 2023 with seven tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, and two sacks, the team appears to be taking a wait-and-see approach on his future. The move signals a challenge to Lloyd to prove his value under the new regime, as the Jaguars have also added two linebackers in the draft and picked up the fifth-year option on 2022 No. 1 pick Travon Walker. Lloyd's performance this season will determine if he earns a new contract with Jacksonville or hits the open market.