Lloyd enters the open market after a season in which he had five interceptions – one returned for a touchdown – seven passes defensed, 1.5 sacks, 10 QB hits, a fumble recovery and 81 total tackles, including six TFLs.
The Campanile’s defensive performance was a stark contrast to his first four seasons up and down, punctuated by misunderstandings and ill-fated coverage. In the attacking style of Campanile D, Lloyd looked truly at home.
Lloyd said he believes he can play at that level on any defense.
“I’m proud to be able to do what I did last year on any defense,” he said. “Obviously (new coaches) came in and they understood that I have talent. And you know, as the weeks went by, they really started to let me use that skill set more and more and play at the level that I’m playing. So it’s always great when a defensive coordinator believes in you. And you know, all those coaches, you know, you know, all those coaches, you know, in the best position. So, you know, I was definitely a product of because, and then I was just at my best every week.
With the franchise tag for a linebacker projected to be $28.2 million, it’s unlikely the Jags will use that scheme to keep Lloyd off the open market. Unless the teams agree to an extension before March, the linebacker will hit free as one of the top off-ball LBs available.
Lloyd said he would prefer to return to Jacksonville, but ultimately would like to stay where he can continue to move up.
“I want to be where God wants me to be,” he said. “For me, being back in Jacksonville, my mom lives out there. You know, obviously, my wife is out there. You know, there’s a lot of benefits to being out there. And so, for me, it’s just about being in the right place. Ultimately, that’s the No. 1 most important thing, being in the right place.”