Chad Muma was cut by the Jaguars as part of roster reductions, ending a three-year run that saw him notch 692 defensive snaps and a heavy special-teams footprint (324 snaps last season across five of six phases). His coverage numbers were a concern (88% completions, 10.3 yards per catch), and a crowded linebacker room—with Devin Lloyd, Foyesade Oluokun, Ventrell Miller, Dennis Gardeck, and rookies Jack Kiser and Jalen McLeod—made him expendable.

Fantasy takeaway: Muma’s exit tightens Jacksonville’s LB mix and could push Lloyd into a larger role, with Kiser and McLeod pushing for backups and special-teams volume. Dennis Gardeck’s addition adds pass-rush depth, potentially loosening Muma’s previously steady special-teams reliance. Monitor how the new depth affects Week 1 snaps and IDP value in deeper formats.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have activated linebacker Dennis Gardeck from the Physically Unable to Perform list. Gardeck, who previously suffered an ACL injury while playing for the Arizona Cardinals, has yet to participate in training camp since his activation. His return may require a gradual ramp-up period before he is fully integrated into practice.

Despite being listed as a linebacker, Gardeck's NFL experience has primarily been as a defensive end, particularly excelling in pass-rushing roles. In the 2023 season, he notched 42 pressures and six sacks, showcasing his potential to bolster the Jaguars' defensive depth. Additionally, Gardeck has been a significant contributor on special teams.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially placed linebacker Dennis Gardeck on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, as they prepare for the start of training camp. Gardeck, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, is recovering from an ACL injury sustained last October. Although classified as a linebacker, Gardeck has primarily played defensive end, where he has showcased his pass-rushing ability, totaling 42 pressures and six sacks during the 2023 season. His versatile skill set also allows him to serve as a box defender, enhancing the depth of the Jaguars' defensive line.

With Gardeck on the PUP list, he can still be activated at any point during the camp once cleared medically. Head coach Liam Coen expressed admiration for Gardeck's competitive spirit and disruptive play. As a special teams captain in Arizona, Gardeck has proven to be an impactful player across multiple game phases. He had a standout performance last year, including three sacks in one game and an interception in another, indicating his game-changing potential.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have transformed their edge rusher position from a major weakness to one of depth by signing Emmanuel Ogbah and Dennis Gardeck. Gardeck, who has spent his last seven seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, joins a robust defensive unit in Jacksonville. In his career, Gardeck has recorded 17 sacks, showcasing his ability to contribute despite not being a primary pass-rusher. His best seasons came in 2020 and 2023, where he tallied 13 of his career sacks.

Notably, Gardeck's production in 2023 was particularly impressive considering he only played seven games, still managing to secure three sacks. His consistency and experience as a rotational piece should bolster the Jaguars' defensive strength moving forward, especially as they look to enhance their performance in upcoming seasons.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have made significant strides in bolstering their defensive end (DE) depth, with notable signings of Dawuane Smoot and Dennis Gardeck. They also acquired Emmanuel Ogbah after the NFL draft, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing this crucial position. The Jaguars aim to complement their starters, Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, by adding seasoned players to ensure a rotation that can meet the demands of a heavily utilized defensive line.

This strategic move not only provides depth but also strengthens the overall competitiveness of the team. With the NFL season approaching, the Jaguars' focus on experience may yield dividends in both performance and injury management throughout the grueling season.