Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars

In the NFL, linebacker competitions often fly under the radar compared to quarterback battles, but for the Jacksonville Jaguars, the fight for backup linebacker spots is critical to shoring up a defense aiming for AFC South dominance. At the center of this competition is Jack Kiser, a third-year player who spent the past two seasons on the Jaguars’ practice squad and special teams units, now pushing for a rotational role on defense. Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars is more than a preseason storyline; it’s a test of Kiser’s growth from a college standout at Notre Dame to a reliable NFL contributor, as well as the Jaguars’ ability to develop depth behind starters Devin Lloyd and Ventrell Miller. With the Jaguars looking to avoid the linebacker depth issues that plagued them in 2023—when injuries forced them to use practice-squad players in critical situations—Kiser’s performance in training camp and preseason could be the difference between a thin and a resilient linebacking corps.

Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars is defined by Kiser’s gritty playstyle and versatility, traits that make him a fit for the Jaguars’ hybrid defensive scheme. At 6’2” and 230 pounds, Kiser lacks the elite size of some NFL linebackers, but he compensates with quick instincts, sure tackling, and the ability to contribute in both run defense and coverage. During Notre Dame’s 2021 season, he recorded 77 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 2 interceptions, showing a knack for being in the right place at the right time—a skill that’s translated to the NFL preseason. In 2024 preseason action, Kiser has stood out with 18 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and a pass breakup, including a standout performance in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons where he led the team with 7 tackles and forced a fumble. Jaguars linebackers coach Robert Saleh has praised Kiser’s football IQ, noting, “Jack doesn’t just run to the ball—he processes plays faster than most backups. He knows our scheme inside out, and that lets him react instead of hesitate.” Whether lining up as a middle linebacker in base sets or a weakside linebacker in nickel packages, Kiser has proven he can handle multiple roles—a key requirement for backups in the Jaguars’ defense.

Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars also reflects the Jaguars’ focus on special teams as a path to defensive playing time, a strategy that’s helped other young players earn roster spots. Kiser has been a standout on special teams since joining the Jaguars, contributing to kickoff coverage, punt coverage, and even punt return units. In 2023, he recorded 11 special teams tackles, tying for the team lead among practice-squad elevations, and he’s continued that production in 2024 preseason, with 3 special teams tackles in two games. For NFL teams, special teams production is often the deciding factor for backup linebackers, as it ensures a player can contribute even if they don’t see defensive snaps. Jaguars special teams coordinator Brian Schneider has highlighted Kiser’s work ethic, saying, “Jack shows up early to special teams meetings and stays late to practice tackles. He treats special teams like it’s the most important part of the game, and that’s the kind of player you want on your roster.” Kiser’s ability to excel on special teams not only boosts his chances of making the 53-man roster but also gives the Jaguars a reliable contributor in a phase of the game that often decides close contests.

Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars has already had a positive impact on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defensive depth in training camp, pushing starters and fellow backups to elevate their play. With Kiser consistently making plays in practice—whether intercepting a pass from backup quarterback C.J. Beathard or stopping running back Tank Bigsby for a loss—starters like Lloyd and Miller have had to step up their intensity to maintain their edge. This competition has made the entire linebackers group sharper, with Saleh noting that practice reps have become more competitive and game-like. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense has also benefited from Kiser’s ability to mimic opponents’ playstyles in scout team drills; his quickness lets him simulate dynamic linebackers from divisional rivals, like the Houston Texans’ Christian Kirksey, helping the Jaguars’ offense prepare for game days. Beyond pushing teammates, Kiser’s presence gives the Jaguars a safety net if Lloyd or Miller misses time—something they didn’t have last season when Miller’s injury forced them to use a combination of practice-squad players and defensive backs at linebacker. For a Jaguars team aiming to win the AFC South, this depth isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars also highlights the mentorship Kiser has received from veteran linebackers, which has accelerated his development. Lloyd, entering his third season, has taken Kiser under his wing, sharing film study tips and helping him refine his run-fit techniques. Miller, a second-year player who also worked his way up from special teams, has advised Kiser on how to balance special teams duties with preparing for defensive snaps. “Devin and Ventrell don’t see me as competition—they see me as someone who can help the team win,” Kiser said in a recent interview. “They’ve taught me how to study opponents’ tendencies and how to communicate with the defensive line, which has made me a better linebacker.” The Jacksonville Jaguars’ locker room culture, which emphasizes teamwork over individual success, has played a key role in Kiser’s growth. Unlike some NFL teams where veterans view young backups as threats, the Jaguars’ linebackers have embraced Kiser, recognizing that his success makes the entire unit stronger. This mentorship has not only improved Kiser’s on-field performance but also helped him feel more confident in his ability to contribute on defense.

Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars concludes with the long-term implications of Kiser’s competition, both for his career and the Jaguars’ linebacker corps. If Kiser makes the 53-man roster, he’ll likely start as a special teams standout and rotational linebacker, but his potential to grow into a larger role is clear. At 24 years old, he has room to develop his physical tools and refine his coverage skills, and if he continues to improve, he could eventually challenge for a starting spot—especially if the Jaguars face injuries or roster turnover. For the Jaguars, Kiser represents the value of patience in developing young talent; instead of cutting him after his rookie season, they’ve given him time to learn the scheme and adapt to the NFL, a strategy that’s paying off. Jack Kiser Competes for Linebacker Role with Jacksonville Jaguars is more than a story about a backup linebacker; it’s a story about how hard work, versatility, and a team-first mindset can turn a longshot into a valuable contributor. As the Jaguars wrap up training camp and prepare for the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Kiser, to see if he can seize his opportunity and become the latest success story in the Jaguars’ efforts to build a championship-caliber defense.