Jacksonville Jaguars Acquire Two-Time Super Bowl Nose Tackle Khalen Saunders

The Jacksonville Jaguars have bolstered their defensive line by trading for veteran defensive tackle Khalen Saunders from the New Orleans Saints, exchanging him for backup center Luke Fortner. Saunders, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, brings both experience and depth to a Jaguars defense undergoing significant changes under new defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile. Saunders expressed enthusiasm about joining the Jaguars, praising Campanile's clear coaching style and the aggressive defensive scheme that fits his skill set. Jaguars Head Coach Liam Coen, familiar with Saunders from previous matchups, highlighted Saunders' ability to be a disruptive force in the middle and provide competition along the defensive front. The trade was finalized shortly after a preseason game against the Saints, surprising Saunders but quickly leading to excitement about his role on the team. Alongside other defensive additions and draft picks, Saunders' arrival is part of the Jaguars' efforts to improve a defense that struggled during the 2024 season.