The Jacksonville Jaguars placed defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton (back) on Injured Reserve on Thursday. The move means that Hamilton won't be eligible to return to game action in 2023 until Week 5. It's a frustrating development for the 26-year-old, especially after he set career-highs in tackles (56) and sacks (2.5) while also recording five tackles for loss and six QB hits in 17 games (14 starts) for the Jaguars in his third NFL season in 2022. The former third-round selection in 2020 out of Ohio State translated his strong season last year into a three-year contract extension this offseason. With Hamilton sidelined early in the year, it will weaken Jacksonville's run defense a bit.
DaVon Hamilton Signs Three-Year Extension With Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars signed defensive lineman Davon Hamilton to a three-year, $34 million extension Wednesday. The contract includes $23 million fully guaranteed. He was entering the final year of his rookie deal and is coming off a career year in 2022. The 26-year-old racked up 56 tackles, including five for a loss, 2.5 sacks, three fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble over 17 games. Hamilton logged 610 snaps last year, and his presence on the defensive line shores up the middle of a surging Jaguars defense.
Jaguars Continue Defensive Rebuild With Davon Hamilton
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected defensive tackle Davon Hamilton out of Ohio State at pick No. 73, further bolstering their defense during this draft. With the selection of a DT, Jacksonville upgraded on all three levels of the defense. Hamilton brings quickness, though the usage of his hands has been significantly low. He recorded 28 tackles and six sacks in 13 games played during 2019, and he may see more playing time in Duval County as the season progresses, but it depends on his development.
