On July 23, the Jacksonville Jaguars are set to kick off their training camp for veterans, but there’s a notable absence – one of their key defensive players.
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The Jaguars shared that defensive lineman Arik Armstead will begin training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to an ongoing knee injury, causing a delayed start to his camp activities.
Armstead, with a nine-year NFL career solely with the San Francisco 49ers since being drafted in 2017 from Oregon, has been a valuable part of the 49ers’ defensive line, boasting 33.5 sacks, 302 total tackles, 43 tackles for loss, and 88 quarterback hits.
In his standout 2019 season, Armstead clinched 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, 54 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 18 quarterback hits. Amid foot and knee injuries causing him to miss five games in 2023, Armstead returned for all the 49ers’ postseason games before his release on March 13, 2024.
The Jaguars swiftly secured Armstead with a three-year, $51 million contract just days after his release, with $28 million guaranteed. His persisting knee issue from 2023 is likely delaying his training camp start.
Recognized as one of the top defensive linemen, Armstead’s 2023 season, despite the setbacks, saw him achieving five sacks, 27 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 13 quarterback hits.
Forming a formidable duo with edge rusher Josh Hines-Allen, Armstead’s full recovery is crucial for their performance. With an eye on longevity and the preseason ahead, the Jaguars are cautious about easing Armstead back into action.
With a star-studded defense lineup including Hines-Allen, cornerback Tyson Campbell, and safety Andrew Cisco, fully healed Armstead is set to further enhance the Jaguars’ defensive prowess.