The 2022 NFL free agency cycle isn’t unlike many other offseasons for the Jacksonville Jaguars. They spend big money on free agents often, and the Christian Kirk agreement, along with the multiple other moves they’ve already made on Monday, are no exception. But how does Kirk fit into Doug Pederson’s offense? Can he be the consistent weapon that Trevor Lawrence lacked in 2021?
Jacksonville Jaguars agree to terms with Christian Kirk
The Cardinals finally unlocked Kirk in his fourth season. In a primary slot role, the former Texas A&M receiver had his most productive season by far. He finished with 982 yards on 77 catches in a crowded Arizona offense. Although his post-catch ability in college didn’t necessarily translate to the next level, he was a solid option for Kyler Murray and Colt McCoy.
Jacksonville desperately needed help at the position. Watching Lawrence (and all the other rookie QBs) for the first 14 weeks of the season almost drove me insane.
The Jaguars’ receiving corps lost its best player before the season started in DJ Chark Jr. Additionally, Marvin Jones underwhelmed after coming over from the Detroit Lions. There were times where Laquon Treadwell looked like the best receiver in Jacksonville. It was grim.
But how does Kirk fit into an offense that should look to use Jamal Agnew more as a slot target?
How Kirk fits the Jaguars offense
Twitter is a funny place sometimes. Anonymous accounts can be incredible resources, or they could be trolls trying to have a laugh. But one account, @TheHonestNFL, seems to have a legitimate relationship with head coach Doug Pederson and an intimate knowledge of his offense.
So when the Jags and Kirk agreed to terms, it was natural to ask about the schematic fit. He said that the Jaguars’ receivers will run approximately 150 routes between the wide receiver spots, and Kirk runs them well. He believes Kirk will play all around the formation and be a threat at all three levels.
Kirk certainly has come a long way as a route runner at the NFL level. He’s more controlled now than when he was as an Aggie, and he has learned to pace himself and find ways to consistently separate. Kirk can and will win at all three levels.
However, I don’t believe he’s a true No. 1 option, and the Jaguars desperately still need a good-sized receiver on the outside to share the load.
Although Kirk doesn’t have problems catching the passes he should, he also won’t help Lawrence much when he’s slightly off-target. Kirk has a minuscule catch radius, and he lacks the ability to climb the ladder. Although he gives Lawrence a more consistent open target, he won’t help go make the play like a true No. 1 option would.