Jaguars place Parker Hughes on IR: How does the LB room stand?

The Jacksonville Jaguars announced they've made several roster moves.

The team placed rookie linebacker Parker Hughes on the reserve/injured list and waived tight end Ethan Conner. They signed linebacker Baylon Spector and offensive lineman Timothy McKay in corresponding moves.

Hughes, a 2026 seventh-round draft pick, was jockeying for a position amongst the reserve linebackers. He showed flashes in limited reps through the start of training camp, looking like a player who could earn a spot on the main roster.

Jaguars 53-man roster projection: Which players helped their stock after first week of the preseason

He'll be sidelined for the season, getting a chance to essentially redshirt this season as he recovers from the injury.

Linebacker is a position that has become quite the revolving door as the team has signed multiple players in the preseason to add depth behind Foye Oluokun, Ventrell Miller and Branson Combs. Spector will get the next two weeks to try to put together good film and possibly earn a reserve spot ahead of Jahlani Tavai or Amari Burney.

It's a little jarring to realize this will be Year 5 with the Jaguars for Foye Oluokun.

He has become a mainstay in Jacksonville's defense, a multi-time captain and leader on that side of the ball. This year will be his biggest task as the team tries to fill the void of former All-Pro backer Devin Lloyd.

Oluokun's leadership will be leaned upon as a first-time starter will be named.

It was assumed that Ventrell Miller would automatically win the starting job when the offseason began. But Branson Combs has put together a strong start to training camp and the two players are battling for the vacancy.

Combs and Miller have both recorded takeaways, with a pick-six for Combs and a punch-out for Miller. They bring separate skillsets as Combs is better at coverage and Miller is a force in the run game.

The Jaguars listed the players with an "OR" designation on the initial unofficial depth chart of the season. It shows just how close the battle is. Which ever player can put together a good finish to camp will get the nod.

Jahlani Tavai is hoping to play his way onto the roster after being signed in training camp. He's the second-most experienced player at the position, entering his eighth year in the league.

Second-year linebacker Jack Kiser suffered a lower body injury on the opening day of camp and has not played since, wearing a knee brace when he's seen at the facility. He's a candidate to be placed on IR with designation to return when final roster cuts are made.

The team signed Amari Burney last week and brought in Baylon Spector as a part of the roster moves they made after the first preseason game.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jaguars place Parker Hughes on IR: How does the LB room stand?