JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As rookie in 2016, Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Yannick Ngakoue set a franchise rookie record with eight sacks. Now entering his second NFL season, Ngakoue isn’t concerned about a sophomore slump.
“Just more excited because I’m familiar with the pace of the game, things of that nature,” said Ngakoue. I’m not coming into my second year not knowing what I’m doing. It’s like I’m feeling more comfortable. I already got my feet wet last year. It’s just rehearsal.”
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Last season Ngakoue earned the starting role at defensive end over former No. 3 overall pick Dante Fowler Jr. The Jaguars would like to be able to use between eight and ten defensive lineman each Sunday. Their thinking is to attack opposing quarterbacks in waves, which would keep each lineman relatively fresh.
“We have weapons: not even including myself, Calais (Campbell), you’ve got Dante (Fowler Jr.), you have a lot of other guys that are good, a lot of weapons,” said Ngakoue. “Speed and strength. I feel like there’s going to be a lot of mismatches going forward.”
Due to the collective bargaining agreement, players aren’t allowed to wear shoulder pads or make contact during organized team activities. Ngakoue actually looks at time of year as a blessing in disguise.
“It just makes you more aware of your technique,” said Ngakoue who set a school record with 13.5 sacks during his junior season at Maryland. “You have to use your hands better. I think it’s a pretty good thing not having pads right now because when you’re getting tired and stuff like that, you definitely just have to work your technique. You can’t just run into somebody and let the play develop and be over with. I definitely feel like with no shoulder pads and no contact, it makes you rely more on your technique and just being more precise.”