Even though the Jacksonville Jaguars weren't very aggressive in free agency this offseason, there will still be plenty of new faces around.

The Jaguars have been heavily criticized for their inactivity in free agency over the last few months. Instead of making high-profile signings to replace departing players like Travis Etienne Jr. and Devin Lloyd, Jacksonville decided to mostly roll with its internal options to step into larger roles.

But that doesn't mean the team will look the same.

Jacksonville drafted 10 new players in the 2026 NFL Draft and made several undrafted rookie free agent signings. The team also brought in breakout candidate Ruke Orhorhoro in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons.

The team also made a couple of notable additions to its coaching staff, and did make one major signing in free agency, running back Chris Rodriguez Jr.

The Athletic went through all 32 NFL teams and picked one offseason addition as each franchise's most intriguing newcomer. For some, it was a splash-free agent signing. Others had a high-profile rookie picked, while a few had a new coach selected.

Jeff Howe made the choice for the Jaguars. He went with Jacksonville's only notable free agent, Rodriguez Jr.

Why Did Howe Choose Rodriguez Jr.?

The signing of Rodriguez Jr. doesn't get much credit as a marquee move. However, Howe still believes he will make a big impact in 2026.

Why?

Howe cites the time Rodriguez Jr. spent with Jags' head coach Liam Coen when both were at the University of Kentucky. Coen loved having him as his running back in college and is likely to trust Rodriguez with a large role in Jacksonville.

"Coach Liam Coen loved Rodriguez when the pair were together at Kentucky, so don’t be surprised if the powerful ball carrier carves out an important role. Rodriguez, a sixth-rounder in 2023, had 920 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in three seasons with the Commanders, so no need to make him sound like Walter Payton. But we should be prepared for Rodriguez to be an important part of the offense in 2026. — Jeff Howe"

Jacksonville's newest RB definitely brings a power element to the rushing attack that the team lacked in 2025.

Rodriguez Jr. was expected to compete with second-year back Bhayshul Tuten for the Jaguars' RB1 role this season. Unfortunately, an injury has kept him out of the team's OTAs and minicamp practices, giving Tuten a clear edge for the job.

However, Rodriguez Jr. is expected to be fully healthy for training camp, where he will finally get a chance to show his new team what he can do.

If Rodriguez Jr. can carve out a sizable role in the offense, as expected, he can certainly be the Jaguars' most intriguing and most impactful newcomer for 2026.

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