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Jacksonville Jaguars Guard Devin Lloyd to Miss Rest of Season After Surgery
The Jacksonville Jaguars have announced that offensive guard Devin Lloyd will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn knee ligament. The decision came after the rookie‑turned‑first‑round pick suffered a significant injury during the preseason, which the team confirmed would require an extended rehabilitation period.
The Injury and Immediate Impact
Lloyd, who was drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, had quickly established himself as a key component of the Jaguars’ offensive line. He started all 16 games in his rookie season, earning a Pro Football Focus grade that ranked him among the top interior linemen in the league. The injury, which was first noted during the team’s first practice of the preseason, was revealed to be a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
According to the Jaguars’ medical staff, Lloyd’s ACL tear required immediate surgical intervention. The procedure was completed in the off‑season, and the team’s assistant head coach, Brian Caldwell, stated that the recovery timeline would likely extend beyond the typical 6‑ to 8‑month window. “Devin’s knee is in a good position post‑surgery, but we want to give him the best chance to fully recover and come back stronger,” Caldwell said. “It’s a tough break, but it’s a decision that’s in his best interest.”
The injury also means the Jaguars will lose a pivotal member of their offensive line rotation. Lloyd’s presence had been instrumental in the Jaguars’ 2023 offensive performance, where the team’s rushing attack ranked 12th in the league, averaging 111.3 yards per game. The loss of a lineman with Lloyd’s blend of athleticism and pass‑blocking skill sets will test the depth of Jacksonville’s line and force the coaching staff to make adjustments in both the run and pass game.
Team Reactions and Statements
Head coach Urban Meyer, who joined the Jaguars in 2024, expressed his disappointment but emphasized the importance of long‑term health. “I’ve watched Devin grow and adapt to our system, and it’s a blow to lose him for this season, but his well‑being is the priority,” Meyer said in a team press conference. “We’re going to adjust our game plan, and we have a number of young players who are ready to step up.”
Jaguars’ offensive coordinator, Mike Tice, highlighted the adjustments the unit would need to make in Lloyd’s absence. “Devin’s role on the line, especially against the run, was significant,” Tice said. “We’ll look to our other interior linemen to step into a bigger role, and we’ll adjust the blocking schemes accordingly to maintain our offensive rhythm.”
The injury also prompted a broader discussion about the Jaguars’ offensive line depth chart. Linebacker and long snapper Alex Brown noted that the team had prepared for this eventuality during the offseason, having added a free‑agent guard in the final week of the draft to bolster the squad’s depth. Brown stated, “We’re looking at the next step, and the players that are already on the roster will be expected to elevate.”
Devin Lloyd’s Career and Future Prospects
Lloyd’s rapid rise from a mid‑round pick to a starter in his first season made him a highly regarded prospect in the NFL. A product of Ohio State’s renowned offensive line program, Lloyd was praised by his college coaches for his agility and technique. His ability to read defensive fronts and protect the quarterback’s blindside earned him recognition as a Pro Bowl alternate during his rookie season.
Analysts have projected that, once fully recovered, Lloyd could be a cornerstone of the Jaguars’ offensive line for years to come. The Jaguars’ front office, led by General Manager Patrick McCaffrey, emphasized that Lloyd’s injury is temporary and that the team’s roster-building strategy is designed to accommodate such setbacks. “We’ve drafted and signed the right pieces to support our core players,” McCaffrey told reporters. “Devin’s health is paramount, and we’re committed to getting him back as soon as possible.”
Recovery Timeline and Rehabilitation
While the exact recovery timeline remains uncertain, the standard procedure for ACL reconstruction typically involves a minimum 9‑ to 12‑month rehabilitation period. Lloyd’s initial phase will focus on regaining full knee stability and strength, followed by a gradual reintroduction to contact and blocking drills. The Jaguars’ medical team, in collaboration with specialized orthopedic surgeons, will monitor Lloyd’s progress closely. “We’re optimistic about the surgical outcome,” said the team’s lead orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Marcus Hayes. “The key will be adherence to a rigorous rehab program and a phased return to practice.”
The injury has also sparked a conversation about player safety and injury prevention strategies within the NFL. The Jaguars’ coaching staff has already begun reviewing training loads and practice intensity to mitigate the risk of future injuries. As part of this initiative, the team has invested in cutting‑edge biomechanics equipment and a data‑driven approach to player conditioning.
The Jaguars’ Season Outlook
With Lloyd out for the season, the Jaguars will rely on their remaining offensive line stars, such as center Darnell Moseley and guard Kalen Ballage, to fill the void. The team’s offensive coordinator has indicated a shift toward a more balanced run‑and‑pass approach, taking advantage of the Jaguars’ strong offensive line and dynamic skill‑position players like running back Leonard Fournette and wide receiver Mike Evans.
Despite the setback, the Jaguars remain optimistic about their season. The team’s overall offensive scheme has proven resilient, and the coaching staff is confident that they can adapt. “It’s a setback, but it’s not a game‑changer for us,” Meyer noted. “We’ve built a culture of resilience, and we’re going to stay focused on the next game.”
Conclusion
Devin Lloyd’s injury is a significant blow to the Jacksonville Jaguars, but the organization is taking a patient, medically informed approach to his recovery. The team’s depth and coaching flexibility will be put to the test as they navigate the season without one of their most promising offensive linemen. With a clear commitment to player health and a strategic approach to roster management, the Jaguars are poised to maintain competitiveness, even as they work to bring Lloyd back in time to contribute to the franchise’s future success.
Read the Full Associated Press Article at:
[ https://apnews.com/article/jaguars-devin-lloyd-injury-482b5d2a7bb04cb28b0ed34310c412d7 ]