Jacksonville bolsters its interior defense by acquiring Khalen Saunders from New Orleans in exchange for Luke Fortner. Saunders, a proven run-stuffer with playoff pedigree, immediately adds veteran punch to the middle and injects meaningful competition behind DaVon Hamilton. The swap also preserves center depth via Jonah Monheim and Patrick Mekari in contingency roles, per head coach Liam Coen.

Saunders’ presence is framed as a stabilizing force for a unit that was dealing with question marks entering camp. Armstead and Maason Smith returning to practice during the sequence helped temper concerns, while Saunders’ ability to disrupt and redirect in the middle should help the Jaguars’ front seven seal gaps and demand double-teams less often. Fortner’s departure creates a shift at center, but Monheim’s familiarity with Hainsey provides a steady backup plan behind the starter and gives the staff flexibility in pinch situations.

From a fantasy lens, Saunders could see rotational run-stuffing snaps that yield tackle upside in certain leagues, especially in games where Jacksonville leans on slowing the run. The move clarifies depth charts and elevates the importance of the Jaguars’ interior pressure, potentially boosting IDP value for a few weeks as Saunders settles in. The trade also signals Jacksonville’s willingness to reinforce the middle to support a defensive line that plans to pressure quarterbacks and clog lanes.