Under-the-radar free agent signing catches attention of Jaguars coaches
An under-the-radar free agent signing from this offseason is catching the attention of Liam Coen and the Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive coaches.
Linebacker Dennis Gardeck wasn't signed by the Jaguars until early June as he continued to work his way back from an ACL injury that cut his 2024 season with Arizona short.
Gardeck then began training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP) as he continued his ramp-up, but once activated about a week into things, he's hit the ground running.
Gardeck is the third linebacker next to Devin Lloyd and Foye Olukon when the Jaguars are in their base 4-3 defense, and he's seen fairly steady playing time this season with 45 snaps over three games.
During those reps, he's logged two pressures, has flown around the field making seven tackles, and has surrendered two receptions for a total of zero yards with a pass breakup, according to PFF .
"I think you've seen throughout the last three weeks, him just kind of getting a little bit better and better, more comfortable coming off the injury," Coen said via Jaguars on SI. "He can rush obviously a little bit, but he'll blow up tight ends, he throws his body in there, and then he can go play in space."
Gardeck brings a unique skill set to the Jaguars. Although listed as a linebacker, and that's where a lot of his playing time has come, he also has ample pass-rush experience from his time with the Cardinals .
That versatility provides defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile with added flexibility when it comes to how he utilizes Gardeck. He also embodies the relentless play style that Campanile wants his defense to have.
Not to be overlooked, either, are Gardeck's contributions on special teams. He's already played 55 teams snaps for the Jaguars this season, helping out on five of the six different phases.
"People have used him, Arizona used him in the rush, but also dropping out, catching interceptions, tips. The way that Dennis plays is something I've always really respected. I've kind of said that a few times and he's the right type of pro," Coen said. "The way he takes care of his body, the way that he does things has put himself in a position to earn more reps and to help contribute for our team to go win."
Gardeck has already established himself as a mainstay on his Jaguars defense and if he continues to play at this level, Campanile may have to find additional ways to get him on the field.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars' LB Dennis Gardeck catches attention of Liam Coen
