B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars

In the NFL, a consistent edge rush is the backbone of a dominant defense—and for the Jacksonville Jaguars, who rely on stars Josh Allen and Travon Walker to pressure quarterbacks, depth at the position is critical to avoiding a drop-off when starters need rest or miss time. Enter B.J. Green II, a third-year edge rusher who joined the Jaguars ahead of the 2024 season after spending two years on the Detroit Lions’ practice squad and special teams. B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars is more than a roster addition; it’s a strategic move to reinforce a position group that struggled with fatigue last season, when Allen and Walker combined to play 78% of defensive snaps—among the highest snap rates for edge rushers in the AFC. With the Jaguars aiming to compete for an AFC South title and a deep playoff run, Green’s ability to step in and generate pressure off the bench could be the difference between a good defense and an elite one.

B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars is defined by Green’s explosive athleticism and refined pass-rush moves, traits that have made him a standout in training camp and preseason. At 6’4” and 255 pounds, Green possesses the ideal frame for an edge rusher, with the speed (4.62 40-yard dash) to beat tackles around the edge and the strength to bull-rush them off the line. What sets Green apart, though, is his repertoire of pass-rush moves—honed during his time at Louisiana Tech and his NFL practice squad stints—which includes a devastating swim move and a quick spin that catches offensive linemen off guard. In 2024 preseason action, Green has already made his presence felt: he’s recorded 4 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 quarterback hits, including a standout performance against the Atlanta Falcons where he sacked backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke twice in the fourth quarter. Jaguars defensive line coach Tosh Lupoi has praised Green’s work ethic, noting, “B.J. comes to practice every day with a chip on his shoulder. He studies film of Allen and Walker to learn their tendencies, then adds his own flair to create a unique pass-rush style. That’s exactly what we need from a backup.” Green’s ability to play both left and right edge also makes him versatile, allowing the Jaguars to rotate him in seamlessly without disrupting their defensive scheme.

B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars also highlights Green’s contributions on special teams—a phase of the game where he’s already making an impact for the Jaguars. During his time with the Lions, Green was a core special teams player, contributing to kickoff coverage, punt coverage, and field goal block units, and he’s carried that production over to Jacksonville. In 2024 preseason, Green has recorded 2 special teams tackles and helped block a punt against the Miami Dolphins, which led to a Jaguars touchdown. For NFL teams, special teams value is often a deciding factor for backup edge rushers, as it ensures a player can contribute even if they don’t see significant defensive snaps. Jaguars special teams coordinator Brian Schneider has emphasized Green’s versatility, saying, “B.J. doesn’t just excel at edge rush—he’s a student of special teams. He knows every role on kickoff coverage, and he’s always looking for ways to make a play, whether it’s tackling a returner or blocking a kick. That kind of flexibility is invaluable.” Green’s special teams contributions not only boost his chances of making the 53-man roster but also give the Jaguars a reliable player in a phase of the game that’s decided multiple close contests in recent seasons.

B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars has already had a tangible impact on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defensive rotation in training camp, allowing Allen and Walker to get much-needed rest without sacrificing pressure. Last season, Allen and Walker rarely came off the field in critical situations, leading to fatigue in the fourth quarter—when the Jaguars allowed 12 fourth-quarter touchdowns, many of which came against a tired pass rush. With Green in the fold, the Jaguars can now rotate their edge rushers more frequently: Green has been taking 20-25 snaps per practice, giving Allen and Walker time to recover while keeping the pressure on opposing offensive lines. The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense has also benefited from Green’s ability to mimic opponents’ edge rushers on the scout team; his quickness and move set let him emulate players like the Houston Texans’ Will Anderson Jr. or the Indianapolis Colts’ Kwity Paye, helping the Jaguars’ offensive line prepare for game days. Beyond rest and preparation, Green’s presence has also pushed Allen and Walker to elevate their play—knowing they have a talented backup waiting in the wings has made them more focused in practice. For a Jaguars team aiming to win the AFC South, this improved rotation could be the key to maintaining a dominant pass rush all season long.

B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars also underscores the mentorship Green has received from Allen and Walker, which has accelerated his adaptation to the Jaguars’ defensive scheme. Allen, a six-year veteran and Pro Bowler, has taken Green under his wing, sharing tips on how to read offensive linemen’s tendencies and adjust pass-rush moves based on game situations. Walker, a 2022 first overall pick, has helped Green refine his technique in run defense—teaching him how to set the edge and stop running backs from getting outside. “Josh and Travon have been amazing,” Green said in a recent interview. “They don’t treat me like a backup—they treat me like a teammate. They’ll pull me aside after a play to show me what I did right or where I can improve, and that’s helped me grow so much in just a few months.” The Jacksonville Jaguars’ locker room culture, which prioritizes teamwork over individual success, has played a key role in Green’s development. Unlike some NFL teams where starters might view backups as threats, Allen and Walker have embraced Green, recognizing that his success strengthens the entire edge-rushing group. This mentorship has not only improved Green’s on-field performance but also boosted his confidence, making him more comfortable stepping into defensive roles during preseason games.

B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars concludes with the long-term value Green brings to the Jaguars’ franchise, both as a current backup and a potential future contributor. At 25 years old, Green has room to grow—he’s still refining his consistency in run defense and working to reduce penalties (he’s drawn just 1 offside flag in preseason, down from 3 in his final season with the Lions)—but his potential is clear. If he continues to develop, he could eventually challenge for a larger rotational role or even a spot in the starting lineup, especially if the Jaguars face injuries to Allen or Walker. For the Jaguars, Green represents the value of finding hidden gems in the NFL’s practice squad ranks; instead of signing an expensive veteran, they’ve added a young, hungry player who’s eager to prove himself. B.J. Green II Adds Edge Rush Depth for Jacksonville Jaguars is more than a story about a backup edge rusher; it’s a story about how patience, hard work, and a supportive team environment can turn a practice-squad player into a key part of a championship-contending defense. As the Jaguars wrap up training camp and prepare for the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Green, to see if he can seize his opportunity and become the latest success story in the Jaguars’ quest to build an elite pass rush.