Jaguars' Arik Armstead: Travon Walker 'can be the best edge in the league'
Jacksonville Jaguars edge rusher Travon Walker took a step forward in Year 2, generating 10 sacks and finding better pressure than in his disappointing rookie campaign.
New teammate Arik Armstead believes the former No. 1 overall pick owns the talent to continue his ascent.
“I think Travon can be the best edge in the league. He has that ability,” Armstead told Juston Lewis of the Florida Times-Union last week. “He had a tremendous year last year, and I know he’s gonna have a tremendous year this year.”
First, Walker would need to pass Pro Bowler Josh Allen to be the best edge on his own team.
Armstead, who played the last five years with former Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa, sees Walker as a player who can put it all together to shoot the moon.
“Armstead stated, “I believe he has unlimited potential. As I mentioned earlier, I am of the opinion that he can become the leading edge player in the league. He also shares this mindset, and I strongly believe he will achieve this.”
Walker showed improvement in the last season, producing 56 quarterback pressures according to Next Gen Stats, and increasing his QB pressure rate to 12% from 10.2% during his rookie year. However, there’s still ample scope for him to grow. Enhancing his game with more counters and varying his moves could assist Walker in boosting his pass rush win rate.
The inclusion of Armstead on the inside is expected to provide more freedom for Walker. As offenses will have to focus on both Allen and Armstead, this should lead to more one-on-one situations for Walker.
Armstead mentioned that he is simply trying to lend a hand in all the ways possible. He is imparting knowledge, demonstrating different strategies he has used and explaining how he overcomes offensive linemen. He is sharing techniques he has employed over time that he believes will be beneficial for him. Even more so, as he himself lacks the skillset and athletic prowess that the other individual possesses.
