The Jacksonville Jaguars have made a noteworthy trade, sending center Luke Fortner to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for defensive tackle Khalen Saunders. This move was confirmed by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Adding Saunders is a strategic decision for the Jaguars. It alleviates concerns about their defensive line depth without sacrificing any draft picks. While Saunders may not be a superstar, he brings valuable experience to a team that needs it.
Originally picked by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Saunders is entering his seventh NFL season. This past year with the Saints, he recorded career highs with 57 total tackles and 24 solo stops. In total, his career stats include 148 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and even an interception. These figures indicate he can contribute effectively, even if he doesn’t stand out in every game.
On the other side, Fortner may have struggled to find his place in the team. After being a third-round pick in 2022 and starting 34 games, Fortner’s role diminished behind Mitch Morse last season. With the recent signing of Robert Hainsey and the drafting of Jonah Monheim, his position in the Jaguars’ lineup became increasingly uncertain. Monheim has outperformed him in practice, positioning himself as a likely backup.
Jaguars head coach Liam Coen mentioned the necessity of consistent performances from the offensive line. He emphasized that players must step up and deliver reliable play, highlighting the importance of teamwork and cohesion during scrimmages.
This trade seems to resonate with fans who are eager to see the Jaguars strengthen their roster. Recent social media trends show supporters discussing how this could impact the team’s performance moving forward. As the Jaguars work through pre-season, the hope is that new acquisitions help them sharpen their competitive edge.
For the latest updates on the Jaguars and their roster changes, check out resources like NFL.com and follow reliable reporters on social media. This can provide insights into how the team adapts to these changes and preps for the upcoming season.
