March 5, 2026, 1:04 p.m. ET

Devin Lloyd is arguably the best player on the Jacksonville Jaguars defense, and he’s also potentially on the way out. While Lloyd is one of the most in-demand free agents set to hit the market, the reality may be that the Jaguars simply can’t afford him.

Salary projections vary, but no matter what they are, retaining Lloyd could be too expensive for Jacksonville. PFF estimates that he’ll get $16 million per year on his next deal, while Spotrac has raised that number to $20 million. Either way, it’s a well-deserved payday for Lloyd, which could result in the Jaguars, who are tight on salary cap space, parting ways with their elite linebacker.

Thankfully, there are options to replace him, both in free agency and the draft. Here are a few the Jaguars should consider.

Kaden Elliss, Atlanta Falcons

Elliss is projected to make a decent payday in free agency, but it’s still far less than Lloyd. He excels in both coverage and the pass rush, is reliable and consistent, and in his three years with Atlanta, he never saw a decrease in his production and abilities. Elliss would be a great signing for Jacksonville, but there would be a lot of competition to get him, and he might ultimately cost too much.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Leo Chenal, Kansas City Chiefs

Chenal is a more overlooked option, simply because the Chiefs haven’t fully utilized him. He’d be much more affordable, which works well for the Jaguars’ budget, and under Anthony Campanile, Chenal might finally have the opportunity to show off just what he’s truly capable of.

Justin Strnad, Denver Broncos

A true budget option, Strnad could help the Jaguars out with filling Lloyd’s shoes. But make no mistake; Strnad may be affordable, but he thrived in the limited opportunities he’s been given. He’s versatile and has shown a lot of growth over the past few years, and could end up becoming a superstar with a bigger role in Campanile’s defense.

Anthony Hill, Jr., University of Texas

Hill is projected to be taken in the second round, which is key for the Jaguars, who won’t get a pick in the first round. But Hill is still a force to be reckoned with, an elite athlete who is already getting buzz as a future Pro Bowler. He’s a three-down linebacker who can take every snap and remain productive, is an elite athlete, and can do it all on defense. He’s a linebacker who should be on Jacksonville’s radar if they end up losing Lloyd.

Deontae Lawson, University of Alabama

If the Jaguars need a linebacker option in later rounds, they should keep an eye on Lawson. He led Alabama in tackles and excels in coverage. Lawson has struggled with injuries during his college career, but has managed to remain relatively consistent and reliable, making him a safe late-round pick for the Jaguars to consider.

Kyle Louis, University of Pittsburgh

Another good option for a later pick, Louis is an incredible athlete who might be one of the best options in coverage in this year’s draft. He’s a bit small for a linebacker, but he still has a lot of potential. Louis was a standout player at Pitt and could be another good option for Day 2 of the draft.