Jaguars Keeping Offensive Lineman Walker Little Despite Struggles

The team's decision to extend Cole Van Lanen at left tackle has raised questions about Little's future, but he remains on the roster heading into 2026.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:50pm

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The Jacksonville Jaguars have decided to keep offensive lineman Walker Little on their roster despite his struggles as a starter in 2025. Little, a second-round pick in 2021, lost his starting job at left tackle to Cole Van Lanen, who was then given a contract extension. While Little's future in Jacksonville seemed uncertain, the team has opted to hold onto him, likely to provide depth and competition along the offensive line.

Why it matters

Little's continued presence on the Jaguars' roster suggests the team believes he can bounce back from his disappointing 2025 season. Keeping him provides insurance and competition at a critical position, which could be important for protecting quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

The details

Little struggled early in the 2025 season, giving up nine sacks before being replaced by Van Lanen at left tackle. He did get a chance to play right guard when Patrick Mekari missed time, but he did not stand out. Despite this, the Jaguars have decided to keep Little on the roster, even though they could have freed up $10 million in cap space by moving on from him.

  • In 2021, the Jaguars drafted Little in the second round.
  • In 2024, Cam Robinson was traded, opening up the starting left tackle job for Little.
  • In 2025, Little struggled as the starting left tackle, leading to him being benched in favor of Van Lanen.
  • In 2026, the Jaguars have decided to keep Little on the roster, despite his struggles the previous season.

The players

Walker Little

A sixth-year offensive lineman who was a second-round pick by the Jaguars in 2021. He struggled as the starting left tackle in 2025 but remains on the team's roster heading into 2026.

Cole Van Lanen

The offensive lineman who took over the starting left tackle job from Little in 2025 and was subsequently given a contract extension by the Jaguars.

Trevor Lawrence

The Jaguars' starting quarterback, whose protection is a key priority for the team.

Patrick Mekari

The Jaguars' offensive lineman who missed time in 2025, allowing Little to get some playing time at right guard.

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What they’re saying

“Holding onto Walker Little gives the Jaguars depth on the O-Line”

— John Shipley, Sports Illustrated

What’s next

The Jaguars will likely have Little compete for a starting job in training camp, but even if he loses out, he will provide valuable depth along the offensive line.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' decision to keep Walker Little on the roster despite his struggles in 2025 suggests they believe he can bounce back and provide important depth and competition on the offensive line, which is crucial for protecting quarterback Trevor Lawrence.