When people think of the Jacksonville Jaguars, they normally think of quarterback Trevor Lawrence, or more recently, highly-touted first-round pick Travis Hunter. Or perhaps some fans see them as a team that has been poorly coached, and one that should have broken through to the next level in the past seasons. However, very rarely do the guys in the trenches draw the same amount of attention as the skill players.
Particularly on offense, where spectacular spirals and rugged running can grab the instant attention of any NFL fan. After all? Very few sacks or fumble recoveries make the highlight reel on ESPN. But a breakaway touchdown gets all the honors.
But the die-harders know that the game is won at the line of scrimmage. Perhaps that's why many reporters and broadcasters view Walker Little as a pivotal - albeit overlooked - part of the 2025 Jaguars lineup.
Walker Little brings stability to the Jaguars Offensive Line
During the offseason, several prominent members of the NFL media have shared the same assertions about Little. The consensus is that he is one of the game's most underrated stars and a valuable member of the Jags' O-Line.
"[He] delivered a career year in 2024, emerging as a steady presence on Jacksonville's offensive line, and the team rewarded him with a contract extension this past year," Pro Football Focus stated last month. "Little was not just Jacksonville's best offensive linemen this past season, but has also done a solid job for his career, allowing just a 1.5% knockdown (sacks plus quarterback hits) rate, which ranks tied for 29th with 2021 draft peer Rashawn Slater among 115 qualifying offensive tackles since 2021."
While he was a part-time player when he originally entered the NFL, Little has emerged as a true leader in the trenches. However, as an unassuming offensive lineman, he doesn't exactly attract a lot of attention or controversy. However, those who watch the game closely agree that he's been invaluable for Jacksonville in 2025 and beyond.
"Little has consistently been the most productive Jaguars offensive lineman when in the lineup throughout the course of his career," John Shipley of SI.com wrote. "He should be in line to do it again in 2025 in the event he starts."
Solidifying the Jaguars offense
Walker Little Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Walker Little (72) stretches during the Jacksonville Jaguars’ third mandatory minicamp Thursday June 12, 2025 at the Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union] | Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Of course, the main responsibility of the offensive line in 2025 will be to keep Trevor Lawrence off the turf. The QB was only sacked 18 times in 2024, but that's mostly due to him only playing 10 games due to a shoulder injury. In 2023, No. 16 was dropped 35 times, and throughout his career, he's dealt with a ton of pressure in the pocket.
With players like Little, along with left guard Ezra Cleveland, there's hope that there will be plenty of protection for Lawrence. They will also factor in by opening holes for potential mega star Travis Hunter. In fact, this is likely the most important year for the guys up front, as many around the NFL are picking the Jaguars to be a sleeper team in 2025.
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