The veteran defensive lineman previews a primetime-heavy schedule, praising Trevor Lawrence’s growth and labeling first-round pick Travis Hunter a "unicorn" ahead of Jacksonville's high-stakes campaign.
With the Jacksonville Jaguars' full schedule now released, we at JaguarsRoundtable have highlighted some of the most intriguing and toughest matchups.
On Friday, veteran defensive lineman Arik Armstead joined Good Morning Football on NFL Network to highlight his excitement for the season and discuss the 17-game slate.
"Definitely happy we got some more primetimes this year, which means that you had a good season the year before obviously," Armstead said. "Definitely, [against the] Cowboys Sunday night is going to be a banger and I'm also looking forward to going back to London."
The Jaguars earned three primetime matchups this upcoming season, looking to build on an AFC South title last season.
Armstead talked about the different air in the building with head coach Liam Coen leading the charge, applauding Coen for the impact he has had on the team.
The 14-year NFL veteran also praised Trevor Lawrence, who had a blazing end to last year's regular season, finishing the year as an NFL MVP finalist.
Armstead said Lawrence solidified his status as one of the best in the game after the Jaguars' 34-20 victory over the Denver Broncos late in the season, crediting his gunslinger for his ability to diagnose what Denver was throwing at him.
Armstead, a former first round pick himself, also had strong praise for Travis Hunter, Jacksonville's most recent top selection.
The 6-foot-7, 290-pound trenchman said Hunter is truly a "unicorn," saying he is able to make so many special plays on the field.
"I'm excited. He just has to get healthy and get back on the field, but I think he showed what he was capable of," Armstead said. "He's a playmaker. He's a difference maker. He brings that energy and spark that we need and we're excited to have him back playing wherever the coaches feel fit. He can do it all."
Of course, Hunter's position and role has been a big discussion point this offseason, but Coen and General Manager James Gladstone have made it clear they intend to play the former Heisman winner as much as possible.
With the influx of youth and talent combined with veteran presences like Armstead, the Jaguars are gearing up for a big year.
Throughout the offseason, players and coaches have preached continued growth, rather than allowing complacency to creep in.
With a winning culture continuing to be built and players rallying around each other and the staff, Jacksonville is poised to be a contender for years to come.
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