Jacksonville Jaguars: Marcell Dareus a perfect addition off bye week

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 8: Defensive tackle Marcell Dareus
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 8: Defensive tackle Marcell Dareus /
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Marcell Dareus now has a chance for a fresh start in the Sunshine State as the Jacksonville Jaguars have bolstered their defensive line even further.

A Jacksonville Jaguars defense that was already one of the stronger ones in the league got even tougher last Friday. Per multiple media reports, the Buffalo Bills traded defensive tackle Marcell Dareus to the Jaguars in exchange for a 2018 sixth-round pick.

Once an All-Pro, Dareus has had a rough go of things so far this season. In five games, he has notched just three tackles. He has also gotten into trouble off the field as well. Back in August, he was sent home from a preseason contest for violating team rules.

In seven seasons however, Dareus has been productive, recording 300 tackles and 35 sacks. His best season came in 2014. That year, he recorded 10 sacks and was named to the Pro Bowl. In addition, he was named a First-Team All-Pro.

Dareus will add a forceful defensive presence to an already blistering pass rush. Jacksonville ranks No. 1 in the league in sacks by a wide margin. The Jaguars have recorded 33 and the next closest team is Pittsburgh who has 24 on the year. The Jaguars are also second in the entire NFL in interceptions with 10.

At 6-3, 331 pounds, Dareus can be difficult to stop and can penetrate offensive lines with ease. In a division that is known for its talented running backs, that size could be a tremendous asset in stopping the run.

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A change of scenery may do Dareus wonders. He can now turn the page on Buffalo and focus on helping his new team. Now, he has a chance to lead a youthful defense for a team that is tied for first in the AFC South. At age 27, he is entering the prime of his career, and still has a lot left in the tank.

This trade could be a steal for Jacksonville and one that could be crucial in the long run.